Weight Loss Surgery for Obesity - Top 5 Surgical Procedures

Top 5 Weight Loss Surgical Procedures for Obesity

Surgical options for weight loss are considered mainly in people who are excessively overweight (more than 100 pounds than normal weight) and is considered after all other options for weight loss like diet pill (eg Orlistat) or exercising have been evaluated or have failed to achieve the desired results. Surgical options for weight loss surgery are of three different types, namely, restrictive surgeries like gastric banding (aimed at reducing food intake), malabsorptive surgeries like Roux - en - Y procedure (aimed at reducing the absorption of nutrients) and a combination of the two. If you would rather not go for surgery, see how diet pills work in weight loss.

Let us now look at some of these different surgical options and understand more about them.

Restrictive Surgery for Weight Loss

* Adjustable Gastric Band (Lap Band)

Adjustable gastric band (as the name implies) is a surgical option involving the placement of an adjustable band around the stomach closer to the upper portion thus dividing the stomach wherein the food enters into a smaller upper portion and then passes through the narrow channel caused by the band and then entering the remaining portion of the stomach. As the absorption remains the same, the digestion is not altered but the person feels fuller due to food entering the smaller pouch enabling the person to eat lesser. This feeling of fullness is due to the stretch receptors being activated as the volume of the stomach is reduced by surgery.

* Vertical Gastrectomy

This surgical option involves removal of a portion of the stomach so that the size of the stomach is considerably reduced thus making the person feel full faster. This method also does not involve alterations to the digestive process. Vertical Gastrectomy works on the same principle as the Lap Band by reducing the volume of the stomach and early activation of the stretch receptors. This makes a person feel fuller earlier than usual, thereby reducing the calorie intake & promoting weight loss.

* Vertical Banded Gastroplasty

This method involves the use of staple and banding to divide the stomach into a smaller upper pouch and a larger portion. Again, the smaller pouch is intended to make the person feel full faster and eat lesser. As there is no alteration to the stomach surgically, the method is reversible.

Combined Restrictive and Malabsorptive Surgery

* Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass

This is one of the most common type of weight loss surgery that is being performed these days. The surgery involves a complex bypass system with the restrictive portion, creating a small stomach pouch from where the food is directed using a bypass to the later portion of the jejunum (the second part of the small intestine). The digestive juices arrive through the normal channel and mixes with the food as it enters the small intestine through the bypass. As the contact with digestive juices happens later, the absorption of nutrients is hampered thereby promoting weight loss.

* Vertical Gastrectomy (Duodenal Switch)

This involves the same restrictive surgery as in vertical gastrectomy. Along with this, the absorption of nutrients and the digestive process is hampered using a bypass for the food to reach a portion of the small intestine without coming in contact with the digestive juices until it reaches the common point in the small intestine. As malabsorption is higher, this procedure is less preferred than the other surgical options.

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Diet Pills in Weight Loss - How do they work!

Diet Pills for Weight Loss - How do they work!

Diet pills are the modern way to loose weight. Some 30 to 40 years ago, obesity was rare and most of the population was thin, however the trend has reversed with many of us obese. To fight weight gain and to stay trim, the latest trend in the ever changing weight loss industry is diet pills. Whether it is Orlistat diet pill or some other weight loss pill, we all wish to maintain optimal weight and loose the love handles!

Every one of us has the experience of taking pills whenever we are ill. We just pop these small pills and allow them to do wonders. So, it would be no surprise to hear that there are diet pills, for helping you loose weight and help you achieve weight control.

Now, we all are skeptical about diet pills claiming to be the next wonder pill, with so many reviews, which one is the genuine one!

If you look at reviews about diet pills, you are more likely to see a mixed response with some people giving their approval while some say that these pills never worked for them. Let us now examine why such mixed opinions are present among users of these diet pills. Orlistat diet pill, its side effect, indications and contraindications are discussed in my previous post.

Like there are good elements, there are an equal number of bad elements that would like to make use of people’s gullibility to make a quick buck. Similarly, in the cash-rich diet pill market, there are many unscrupulous people who are ready and waiting to take people out for a ride and feed you with pills that would do nothing much to help you get off the weight that you are wanting to lose.

They will just package some pills, for example, some vitamin supplements that make tall claims through well-created advertisements to lure people to try out their products. Obviously, people trying out these products will have no effect on their weight problems thus driving a negative response towards such pills.

How do the diet pills work?

* Increasing the Basal Metabolic Rate:-

Some diet pills contain ingredients in them that are meant to have an effect on boosting the metabolism of the body. This means that more energy is utilized for performing day to day activities that you undertake on a daily basis. So, as more energy is being utilized for the same amount of work, the stored fat in the body gets used to meet the increased demand thus helping you achieve weight loss.

* Appetite Suppressants:-

Appetite suppressing pills will reduce the sensation of feeling hungry and suppress the appetite. This enables the person to eat lesser than what he/she normally consumes thereby helping slowly to reduce excess weight.

* Losing Excess fat from the Gut (steatorrohea - in medical terms):-

This mechanism of action is useful in the Orlistat diet pill. This causes less fat absorption and when used in conjunction with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet, it leads to weight loss.

Diet Pills and Lifestyle

Diet pills on their own will not lead to weight loss. Orlistat diet pill’s manufacturer recommends that the diet pill has to be used in conjunction with when used along with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet. One thing that people trying to lose weight using diet pills should remember is that diet pills are not capable of doing its wonders by itself. It has to be complemented by the right lifestyle changes like changing the diet and introducing a proper exercise regime.

But, the question that now arises is that if diet and exercise play such a role then what the necessity of using diet pills to help lose excess weight is. Although weight loss can be achieved using diet changes and exercise, the use of diet pills will improve the results that one can see with the appropriate lifestyle changes. So, it is definitely beneficial to use diet pills regularly along with eating right and exercising on a regular basis. The diet pills are recommended for those who do not achieve weight loss with the usual lifestyle changes.

Diet pills are a safe and effective means of helping you achieve weight loss. But, one needs to be careful when buying diet pills. It is always better to seek medical advice before trying out diet pills.

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Laser Eye Surgery Video - Patient Education

Laser Eye Surgery Video - Patient Education


See this excellent laser eye surgery video by a patient who underwent laser eye surgery. Read my Laser Eye Surgery Review.

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Laser Eye Surgery Video

Laser Eye Surgery Video


See this excellent laser eye surgery video by a patient who underwent laser eye surgery. Read my Laser Eye Surgery Review.

In case you are looking for some other topics, see my most popular ones

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Laser Eye Surgery - My Review

Laser Eye Surgery - My Review

I have been myopic for some time now and finally thought that I will bite the bullet, refresh the anatomy of the eye and go in for laser eye surgery. Grass is always greener on the other side and bespectacled chaps always dream of losing their glasses & seeing world without the hassle of donning spectacles. I think, most of you who wear glasses have at some point or the other, have dreamt of such possibilities and been put off by the thought of complications to the eyesight. We all have heard of horror stories about various surgical procedures and would like to live and whinge, rather than go under the scalpel & regret later. After all, if it is not essential, i would rather not go under the knife. Afterall, my eye is extremely important to me & whatever small the percentage of risk there is, i would rather not have even that element of risk, when it comes to my eyesight. BTW, my friend from Sydney, recommends Laser Sight, as he has tried it himself, so if you are looking for Laser Eye Surgery in Sydney or Melbourne, Laser Sight has clinics around Australia.

Anyway, friend ship aside, I might have had some temporary mid-life crisis or maybe I was drunk when I filled out that form. Just like that, on the spur of the moment, the decision was made. I was online & saw an advert on Yahoo, clicked it, filled out a few lines and gave my phone number online.

I was phoned shortly by vision express and I made an appointment. I was afraid of laser eye surgery side effects & its complications and the treatment as well as costs & finance options of laser eye surgery. Therefore, I read about it on the net, phoned a friend, he lives in Sydney & has had Laser Eye Surgery and discussed options with family, after all the hullabaloo and online research, I made to my appointment with trepidation.

Finally, the D-day came & I found myself in the consulting room, the desk staff were all dressed nicely & polite. Finally, I was called into the examination room by the optometrist and my eyesight was measured for laser eye surgery. To my delight, the eyesight has to be so bad as to attain a certain level after laser surgery, so that I can appreciate the difference made by laser eye surgery, I was told. Like the medical mumbo jumbo, we subject our patients to, I was forced to ask the ubiquitous question that most patients ask their doctors, what do you mean by that.

Much to my relief and an inward whoop, I was told that my eyesight is only 0.05 dioptres and that I do not need any laser eye treatment and that if I were to go ahead & have it done, then I might not have any benefit. Here I am back to my books and my littmann stethoscope! If you want to understand more about the anatomy of the eye or learn about the procedure itself, i have collected some excellent patient videos for laser eye surgery, go through them.

That was the icing on the cake! That was my experience with laser eye surgery, what was yours? Feel free to share your thoughts, experiences etc in the comments section below.

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RevolutionDS Weight Loss Pill Alert by Health Canada

RevolutionDS Weight Loss Pill Alert by Health Canada

Health Canda has sounded an alert for consumers taking a weight-loss pill Revolution DS. They state that customers should avoid an unauthorized product sold online that contains BZP!
The capsules called RevolutionDS Weight Loss pill, contain a synthetic substance known as benzylpiperazine, or BZP.

BZP (Benzylpiperazine) may cause:

* Increased body temperature.
* Increased blood pressure.
* Dilated pupils.
* Increased euphoria.
* Alertness.
* Paranoia.


Health Canada’s drug arm is considering whether to add BZP to a list of substances included in the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act or not.
Customers who take the recommended dose on the label of the RevolutionDS weight loss products could be associated with serious and life-threatening health consequences, Health Canada warns. Fortunately, this does not apply to the Orlistat Diet Pills.

Apparently, there is a Canadian report of cardiac arrhythmia or abnormal electrical activity of the heart associated with the use of RevolutionDS Weight Loss products and hence this alert.

Benzylpiperazine may also negatively interact with alcohol and prescription drugs, and scientific data suggests it has abuse potential given its amphetamine-like effects, Health Canada said.

The diet pills are distributed by a website called revolutionds.com. Health Canada said the contact person listed on the website "has not been forthcoming in providing all required information to effectively recall the unauthorized product."
Anyone who has used the product and is concerned is advised to consult a health-care practitioner. Everyone should know how diet pills work in weight loss.

The reports at the moment do not state that this is applicable to UK, but if you are concerned - watch the space.

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Private Health Insurance – Tips for Cost Cutting

Private Health Insurance – Cost Cutting Tips for Cheap Insurance

Private Health Insurance, in simple words, is a type of insurance that one pays for to cover the expenses incurred to avail private treatment towards medical conditions that a person is facing.
Earlier, paying for a private health insurance facility in the UK was considered to be a facility that was opted for by only a privileged few who could afford to do so. But, nowadays more and more people are opting for such an insurance facility owing to the many different benefits that they get to enjoy. Many businesses also provide private health insurance to its employees.

Although most of the treatments availed by people in the UK come under the purview of the NHS and it is equipped with the best of facilities and even the best of doctors, the most common woe that everyone wanting medical facilities have is that they have to wait for long periods of time before getting proper medical care. So, in order to avoid longer waiting periods, more and more people are opting for private health insurance so that they can opt for treatment in private medical hospitals with better sanitation standards.

Below I have listed some of the advantages that a person gets by availing private health insurance and not waiting for lengthy periods of time to avail facilities for medical care with the NHS.

The Advantages of Private Health Insurance

Along with the lengthy wait for availing medical facilities through NHS, the time taken to get specialist treatment is also very high. But, when one avails private health insurance, the waiting time is significantly reduced and patient gets to meet the concerned specialist faster and will be able to see the same doctors for repeat visits to avail continued care. This continuity of care is especially valued by patients and results in a higher satisfaction rate.

As medical facilities are availed with very limited or almost no waiting period, the downtime is also lesser and the patient is able to recover faster. This enables the person to return back to normal activities and return to work earlier.

When a person avails private health insurance, he/ she will get to choose the facility where they want treatment. This flexibility enables the person to choose an appropriate medical facility and consider options like cleanliness, the treating doctors, the proximity of the hospital to their place of residence and other facilities that are available in the place.

Also, since they are able to avail private medical care, they have better access to quality care and treatment not to forget full attention of the treating doctors.


Understanding the Various Health Insurance Policies

One thing that might confuse a person while choosing the type of private health insurance is to select the appropriate insurance policy. By making a wrong choice, they may either end up paying too high a premium or buy a policy that does not cover many things and end up with high costs despite having insurance. So, everyone that opts for private health insurance should have knowledge of the types of policies that are available.

Types of Private Health Insurance Policies

• Budget Policy: The most basic of the policies is a budget policy. In this kind of policy, only treatment availed as an inpatient is covered while other preliminary tests, fees paid out to consultants and treatment taken as outpatients do not get any coverage.

• Standard Policy: The next type of policy is a standard policy that covers all inpatient treatments availed and also covers other medical expenses like diagnostic tests (within a certain limit, usually between £500 to about £2000) and will also cover certain outpatient procedures to a certain pre-determined limit.

• Comprehensive policy: This will cover almost everything and will even allow the person to avail benefits like psychiatric care, dental treatment, follow up care, in-hospital expenses apart from that of medical treatments, and will even cover home nursing expenses. As this policy is more comprehensive, the premium paid towards it is naturally on the higher side in comparison to the other policies mentioned.

Some insurers are even offering flexible policies wherein the people availing it can choose from a variety of options to build their own policy according to their requirements and their budget.

Choosing the Right Private Health Insurance

There are many ways one can opt for to buy private health insurance in the UK. They can either opt to approach an insurer themselves or take help of insurance advisors or use an insurance agent to finding the right choice of insurance.

There are many aspects that one needs to look at while choosing the right type of private health insurance that is best suited for their needs and budget.

The first and foremost thing that you need to do is to understand the basics of insurance and the various policies available so that you can make an informed choice. Then you should understand the ins and out’s of an insurance policy and opt to choose the right kind of policy depending on your needs while looking at your budget. Read the fine print, some policies exclude pre-existing diseases and don’t payout for them.

Once you have chosen the appropriate policy, check the various companies offering insurance and see which of their policies best suit your needs.
In addition, there are many different methods that one can opt to reduce the cost incurred towards premiums.

Cost Cutting Methods

There are many ways that one can adopt to help reduce costs towards paying premiums.

* Opt for a Cheaper Policy: One such method is to not opt for a high premium policy like a comprehensive policy and opt for a budget policy. This will no doubt help cut costs but one should also consider and weigh it against the things that will not be covered under a budget policy.

* Buy Group Insurance: Another cost saving measure is to opt for a group insurance even though it will still continue to be a private health insurance. As group cover will be provided at reduced costs, even though you might not be able to avail such a facility through your employer, you can gather like-minded people to join up and form such a group.

* Part Payment: You can even take up the responsibility of paying a part of the treatment expenses which will enable you to cut costs towards premium paid. Some insurance policies also provide cover with lesser premium if you are willing to use NHS facilities without having to wait for the prescribed time limits. If in case NHS is not able to cover the treatment within the waiting period specified, then the treatment can be availed at a private facility.

* Shop Around: In the UK, there are many private insurance providers and it always pays to shop around. Some savvy individuals play one insurance provider against the other and net a bargain. If you are good at it, you too can save money.

You never know when you or your family members can have a medical problem that will need treatment. If you do not want the cost of medical expenses burdening you at that moment, it is best to opt for an insurance covering these problems and help you reduce the trauma of waiting for lengthy periods of time and provide quality treatment and provide you the peace of mind.

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Orlistat Diet Pill - Indications, Side effects & Contraindications

Orlistat Diet Pill – Indications, Side effects & Contraindications

Orlistat diet pill has been making news now that it has been given approval to be sold Over the counter without a prescription for weight loss.

Orlistat diet pill should be used for weight loss in overweight adults, 18 years and older, when used along with a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet. The first over-the-counter anti-obesity pill, Alli blocks out the fat in our food, about 25 per cent of it, doesn’t allow it to be absorbed and throws it out, quite literally

According to varying estimates, for every four kgs lost by exercising and following a healthy diet, those on Orlistat will lose six kgs — that’s an incredible 50 per cent more. This cuts down the effort by 50% to loose those stubborn love handles.

The primary function of Alli (Orlistat) is prevention of the absorption of fats from the human diet, thereby reducing caloric intake. It is intended for use in conjunction with a physician-supervised reduced-calorie (i.e weight loss) diet. Orlistat is the saturated derivative of lipstatin, a potent natural inhibitor of pancreatic lipases isolated from the bacterium Streptomyces toxytricini.


Now one thing that the manufactures say is that you have to eat a reduced-calorie and low-fat diet – now that on its own should help anyone to loose weight, without using Orlistat. Since it is used in conjunction with weight loss regimes, it is claimed to be more effective.

Obesity is a cat which can be skinned in many ways, all it needs is determination! Some loose weight just by exercising, some by dieting, some using dieting pills and some are naturally thin.

I personally don’t recommend dieting pills, but many others recommend using orlistat dieting pills and swear by it. They claim:-
• One in five will lose 10% or more of body weight
• Half will lose less than 5% of their body weight

Who should NOT be taking Alli:

• Do not use if you have had an organ transplant. Orlistat interferes with the medicines used to prevent transplant rejection
• If you are taking cyclosporine tablets (it reduces the plasma levels of cyclosporine)
• If you have been diagnosed with problems absorbing food
• If you are not overweight
• If pregnant or breast-feeding, do not use alli.


Read what the Alli’s manufacturer says about Orlistat’s Side effects:-

Treatment effects are:-

* bowel changes that are most commonly caused by eating meals with too much fat while using alli capsules.

Such effects may include
* oily spotting,
* loose stools, and
* more frequent stools that may be hard to control.

Orlistat works by blocking the absorption of a quarter of the fat in the foods you eat. This undigested fat passes through the body naturally, and it is not harmful. In fact, you may recognize it in the toilet as something that looks like the oil on top of a pizza.

Eating a low-fat diet that consists of 15 grams of fat per meal on average can lower the chance of experiencing these treatment effects. Additionally, the alli program can help you reduce the likelihood of having treatment effects.

Alli –Orlistat Contraindications
Orlistat is contraindicated in:

• Malabsorption Syndromes
• Reduced gallbladder function (eg. after cholecystectomy)
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding
• Some kidney problems

After seeing the image above, I bet you all are keen to give Alli (Orlistat) a try! ;-)

If you have tried orlistat dieting pill and benefitted from it, feel free to comment below.

Latest News:- Dieting Pills RevolutionDS are Recalled by Health Canada

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Acne Treatment in Sheffield and Leeds

Acne Treatment in Sheffield and Leeds
Acne is one of the most common skin conditions affecting a majority of the population and occurs mainly in the teenage as well as in young adults but can occur in the older age groups too. Even though acne is most likely to disappear over a period of time, some people continue to suffer from this skin ailment even in their third decade of life. Though acne is not of very serious concern, it has affected the lives of many of us, as it causes cosmetic concern.

Types of Acne

Although there are many different types of acne, acne vulagaris is the type of acne that most people suffer from. The other types of acne include acne conglobata that occurs mainly in men and is known to occur in the areas of the chest and the back. Then, there is acne medicamentosa that is seen as a side effect of taking certain medications, for example, steroids, birth control pills, etc.

Acne vulgaris can be further sub divided based on the symptoms seen into inflammatory, non-inflammatory and the secondary type of acne. Non-inflammatory acne comprises of white heads and black heads. An example of inflammatory type of acne includes pustules or papules in association with black heads and white heads and is known as papulopustular acne. Another example of inflammatory type is nodular acne.

Causes of Acne

Acne is known to follow a hereditary pattern to some extent although this need not necessarily be true. It can also skip generations and occur. So, people with a family history of acne have a higher risk of developing this skin condition.

Acne is caused by increased production of sebum (oil) by sebaceous glands that are present in association with the hair follicles. This increased activity of sebaceous glands causes hair follicles to get blocked and get plugged with the excess sebum. This plug can enlarge and rupture leading to the skin lesions of the acne.

The presence of commonly present bacteria on the skin called Propionibacterium acnes or P.acnes is also known to be responsible for lesions of acne to occur and to make lesions worse.

Androgens, a type of male hormones (although occurs in both the sexes) is known to be a contributing factor in development of acne lesions. This hormone causes an increase in the activity of sebaceous glands thus promoting formation of acne lesions. As the secretion of these hormones go up as the person reaches the age of puberty, the incidence of acne lesions increases in this particular age group.

Contrary to the belief, acne lesions are not caused due to dirt accumulation on the skin but oily skin can be a contributory factor. So, washing the face and keeping it clean reduces the amount of oil secretion and thus has an effect on acne lesions. Another popular myth is that eating of junk foods and chocolates have an adverse effect and contribute to formation of acne lesions. Though this is not a proven fact as indicated through various studies, many people still prefer to stay off junk foods as they believe that it will have an effect on reversing the occurrence of acne lesions. Another rare cause of acne can be PCOS, this was covered in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and Hirusitism.

Some medications like steroids, birth control pills, anti-epileptic drugs, etc can have an effect on increasing the incidence of acne lesions or make them severe. Also, some cosmetics have an adverse effect in increasing or worsening the lesions of acne.

Treatment for Acne Vulgaris

* Self-Care - as a treatment for Acne

As excess oil production can be reduced by regularly washing and cleansing using a mild soap, it is advisable to do so as it might have an effect in reducing the incidence or making the lesions less severe. There are even specific cleansers that are available in the market that can be bought for this purpose. But, care is taken not to overdo it or to cause skin irritation by scrubbing the area too harshly as this can aggravate the problem.

Avoid the use of cosmetics that cause skin irritation and can cause increase or worsening of symptoms. If you have suffered from this due to the use of any such cosmetics, avoid further use.

There are many over-the-counter products that you can try out to help reduce the incidence or to lessen the symptoms. But, care must be exercised to follow instructions provided and use should be discontinued if any adverse reactions are seen and immediate medical help should be sought.

* Medications used in the Treatment of Acne

There are many topical applicants that are available to help reduce the incidence of acne or to help reduce the symptoms. The most common of them is the use of benzoyl peroxide. This is known to have an effect in reducing the harmful effects caused by P.acnes. It is also known to have an effect in reducing the plugging of the hair follicles caused by the sebum. Also, the use of benzoyl peroxide in combination with other antibiotics is known to reduce the incidence of bacterial resistance.

Antibiotics as topical antibiotics that can be applied onto the lesions are available. The most common of them in use is erythromycin and clindamycin. These antibiotics are commonly used with benzoyl peroxide to reduce bacterial resistance. Antibiotics are also taken as medications to help reduce the effects caused by P.acnes. Some such antibiotics that are in use are tetracycline, minocycline and doxycycline. However, these are also used with topical application of benzoyl peroxide to help reduce bacterial resistance.

Another topical application includes the use of retinoids directly onto the lesions of acne. These help in reversing the symptoms and help in reducing the lesions of acne. In very severe cases of acne, a topical retinoid called isotretinoin is used but care needs to be exercised when this topical applicant is being used. Isotretinoin can cause depression in some people. If this occurs, then proper specialists need to be approached to provide the necessary help.
*
Other Treatment Modalities Currently in use for Acne

One such treatment that has been tried out is the use of steroids that are directly injected into the lesions of acne. Other modalities include phototherapy and laser therapy for the treatment of acne.

However, most of the treatments that are available including medications and other forms of therapy all have only a positive impact on reducing the lesions and the symptoms while it can establish a total cure from the condition. Once the treatment is ceased, the chances of recurrence of the lesions are very high. For this reason, most of the treatments that are available for treating acne is carried on for long duration of time to prevent recurrence of the lesions. Some of the treatment options are covered by private health insurance as well, please check with your policy issuer!

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pulse oximeters

Wish U a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!

Wishing all my blog readers a Merry Christmas & a Happy New Year!
An appropriate image for a Medical & Travel blog, what do you say!

Manscaping Sheffield– New Grooming Trend among Men

Manscaping in Sheffield – The New Grooming Trend among Men


A shaggy, disheveled look might go well only if you were acting in a Wild West movie in the bygone days. Now, men not only are concentrating on their hygiene but are also concentrating on improving their looks and prefer the well-groomed appearance as it seems to score well with one and all. This is where the term “Manscaping” has taken origin from making a man look shaved and well-groomed.

Gone are the days and the myths that men will not look like men if they do not have hair all over their bodies. Women not only are not questioning the masculinity of a man without all that hair popping up from all parts of the body but are also so in love with the perfect well-groomed look that men are going in for.

So, let us now first understand what Manscaping is all about and whether or not it is an essentiality for every male on the planet? Manscaping refers to keeping a man’s body free of hair in all the unwanted areas and trimming it off in certain areas to give it the perfect well-groomed look thus enhancing the visual appearance of the person. Manscaping is done to remove unwanted hair from the face, the chest, the back and even the area around the genitals.

Initially, it was only professional models, corn stars, actors and other people who had to flaunt their bodies that started off with going for the manscaping look. Then, they were joined in by many sportsmen who were into sports like athletics, swimming, boxing, wrestling, etc as it provided them with an advantage while participating in such sporting activities. Gradually, more and more men on the streets are joining in the fray to get the well groomed look to appear better. But, is this an essentiality?

More and more women when questioned say that they love the well-groomed look that a person undertaking manscaping is getting and says that it not only makes the person look more attractive it also makes the person appear cleaner and more hygienic. So, this is something for every man to remember so that it will help them improve their scores when it comes to being judged by women with whom they want to get up close and personal.

So, if this has got you interested in going for the perfect Manscaping look, you should also understand how to get it right by knowing where to remove the hair and where to just keep it short. So, for this we need to look into some dos and don’ts of Manscaping.

Dos and Don’ts of Manscaping

The first and foremost don’t is to avoid going in for the total shaved look everywhere. This is a real turn off and no women digs seeing a man with absolutely no hair. This probably will make her question your masculinity unless you already know her. So, this is an absolute no-no to go bald everywhere.

The most common of mistakes that every person attempting the perfect well groomed look does is to shave off the armpits. This though, according to women, gives a clean look, but is not the what the girls look for. Instead, they need to keep the area trimmed so that it will appear more hygienic and reduces the sweating and makes the area less smelly. Apparently, women, like the armpits to be trimmed, but not bald!

The hair on the chest can be kept short by trimming it to give it a better groomed look. However, some women would love to have their guys sport a total bare chest look. If your woman is falling in such a category, it is best to get off all that hair from there. When it comes to hair on the back and on the shoulders, the only way to go about it is to get it all off. This is an absolute must for a manscaped look that you are looking for.

When it comes to the area around your genitals, it is again preferable to go for the short well-trimmed look rather than going and shaving it all off. This is because it is a kind of a turn off for many women and is also very prickly when you are getting intimate with your partner, so we are told. So, a well-trimmed look is definitely the way to go.

Manscaping Methods

There are many methods that any guy can opt for to get off all that unsightly hair off the body and the face and for trimming it down to give the perfect Manscaped look. Let us look at some of these methods and the areas where it can be applied to get the perfect look that every man wants.

For facial hair, shaving is the best way to go. This is something of a norm for every man and is the most convenient option that every man follows to get the perfect clean look to the face. But, shaving only covers areas of the beard and the mustache and should be restricted to it. For other areas like the eyebrows, the nose and the ears, other methods need to be followed.

Eyebrow hair is best kept well groomed by using a pair of tweezers. Tweezers are good also to remove stray hairs growing from the knuckles and the toes. For unsightly hair growing from the nose and the ears, it is best to use epilators or trimmers as they can do a great job quickly without causing any kind of pain.

The perfect manscaped look to the face is not complete if you are sporting a bad hair style. So, the first and foremost thing to do is to get a proper haircut if you need one badly and not allow the hair to grow unsightly and give you a mangy look.

Once you have concentrated on facial areas, it is now essential to go more south and look at other areas for that perfect manscaped look. As mentioned before, you can get off all that hair off your chest or keep it trimmed to give a better groomed appearance. A trimmer will help keep it short and well-groomed.

The hair on the back and shoulders need to go off totally. So, this is best achieved by a professional as it is not possible to reach out everywhere and get it off. The are many methods to help you get off all that hair from these areas and can be done by shaving, waxing, sugaring or more permanent methods like electrolysis or laser hair removal.

When it comes to area around the genitals, you can keep it well-trimmed by using special trimmers that will not hurt the sensitive areas out there. If you are looking for a bare look, it is best to use a razor and get it all off as you cannot use other methods like waxing as it causes problems as the skin out there is very, very sensitive.

As we have seen, Manscaping is a trend that is catching up among individuals from all strata of life looking at improving their looks and having a better visual perception that is well accepted by their partners making it a grooming revolution that looks like it will stay for a long time to come.

One of the best ways to have a sculpted look in Sheffield and achieve a no pain manscaped look is to have painless laser hair removal in Sheffield.

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Laser Vein and Pigment Removal London

Laser Vein and Pigmentation Removal London

Lasers and microdermabrasion have been effectively used in the treatment of a variety of skin problems and for hair removal. It is also very helpful in eliminating pigmentation caused due to a variety of vascular lesions (arising out of the blood vessels) by employing use of appropriate laser treatment on the veins or blood vessels that are causing the problem.

Please read my previous posts on laser hair removal in Sheffield, Cellulite Removal and Hirsutism and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, if you want to read about some background information.

Some of the pigmentation and vein problems that it has helped overcome include port wine stains, scars, birthmarks, spider veins, rosacea (rashes), stretch marks, freckles, tattoos, etc.

Let us now understand more about how laser treatment is employed for the elimination or reduction of problems arising from skin pigmentation or vascular problems.

Mechanism of Action of Lasers

Different laser light sources work at different wavelengths. Depending on the wavelength, the penetration of the laser light sources will differ. So, based on the type of lesion that the laser has to treat or the depth to which the beam has to penetrate to reach the area of treatment, the appropriate laser light source is selected by the treating physician.

The light source is applied against the skin surface and the beam penetrates the area of the skin to reach the area to be treated. The basic mechanism of action of lasers is based on absorption of the laser light source by the destination target known as chromophores. In the treatment of skin and hair problems, the destination chromophore is a pigment found in the skin called as melanin and in treating vein disorders and other blood vessel problems, the destination chromophore is oxyhemoglobin (that portion of hemoglobin that carries oxygen to the various parts of the body).

When the light source reaches the destination chromophore it gets absorbed by it and the light energy gets converted into heat energy. This heat energy causes the necessary destruction of the target areas and thus brings about the desired effect.

Different Types of Lasers Used for Treatment of Vein and Pigmentation

A variety of lasers are used for treating vein and pigmentation problems. Depending on the penetration required, different laser light sources are used. The laser light sources used in the past utilized continuous wave to perform its functions. This continuous wave light source had the potential to cause increased trauma to the target blood vessels causing a higher degree of side effects.

But, these days pulsed lasers are used along with other improved mechanisms like cooling and longer duration of pulses resulting in better degree of results achieved as well as helping in reducing the number of side effects that are seen following the procedure.

One of the first type of lasers used to treat vein and pigmentation treatment was the argon laser with a wavelength of 488-514nm. This utilizes a continuous wave and has some amount of untoward effects on the skin as it has a short wavelength, especially in people with dark skin. The results obtained too were not of the quality that can be achieved by other lasers and is now not preferred for use in treating vein and pigmentations.

Apart from this, we have the argon pump dye laser that operates at a wavelength between 488 to 638nm and uses pulsed waves rather than continuous waves and can target hemoglobin in blood vessels. Then there are other laser systems like the copper vapor, copper bromide lasers, krypton lasers, etc which are pulsed lasers that are very effective when used against bigger blood vessels.

The Nd:YAG laser operates at a wavelength of 1064 nm and is very effective against vein and blood vessel problems that occur in small or medium sized blood vessels. Due to the longer wavelength of these lasers, they have better penetration into the deeper areas and reach the target destinations better. So, the occurrence of untoward side effects is totally minimized when this laser system is used.

The Laser Treatment Procedure

The area to be treated with the laser system will be anesthetized by using topical anesthetic creams or by use of a spray. It is mandatory for everyone in the treatment room to wear protective eye glasses as the laser light can cause damage to the eyes as there is a high concentration of melanin in the eyes that can absorb the laser light.

The operating physician will direct the laser light source onto the area that is necessary to be treated using a light source that has the optimal wavelength to treat that particular kind of vein or pigmentation. Even though the area has been numbed by the anesthetic solution, it is still likely that the person can feel some amount of mild sensations like a bee sting or a burning sensation when the treatment procedure is being undertaken.

Following the treatment provided for a particular period of time, a compress or an ice pack could be provided to the treated area to minimize swelling and redness and to prevent other side effects from occurring. Some topical applicants might be prescribed for the person to apply to the treated area to promote healing.

A single session of treatment is not enough usually to treat and reduce the condition for which laser treatment is being provided completely. So, a number of follow up visits might be planned and schedules should be followed correctly to obtain optimal results out of the procedure.

Side Effects of Laser vein and Pigment Removal in London

It is possible that some side effects might be seen following the procedure. Most of these side effects seen are temporary and will disappear after some time after the treatment is completed. But, in some people permanent side effects might occur and the most common of these are hypopigmentation or the occurrence of scars.

Though the results seen out of the procedure is quite good, there is always the possibility of occurrence of fresh lesions that might need fresh treatment with lasers.

As we have seen, lasers have been widely used and are quite effective in correction of vein and pigmentation problems. The technology advancements and operator experience has vastly reduced the occurrence of side effects and has made them minimal thus improving the benefits that one gains from undertaking the procedure.

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Cellulite Removal by Radio Frequency Ablation

Cellulite is a common problem experienced equally by women and men. Even though it cannot be classified as a condition that needs medical attention, it is of cosmetic concern as cellulite appears very unattractive. So, what exactly is cellulite and how does one overcome this problem that is causing cosmetic concern in a majority of women.

Cellulite is that dimpled appearance of the skin caused due to fat deposition and the tension caused by connective tissue which binds the skin to the muscles. It is predominantly seen in areas where more fat deposition is seen such as the area of the hips, thighs and the buttocks but can occur in other areas also. The dimpling of the skin is seen only when the skin is pinched together when the condition is mild while in severe cases, it can be clearly seen.

Cellulite need not necessarily be present only in obese people although they have a higher tendency to have a higher percentage of cellulite. Cellulite can be seen even in slim women. The occurrence of cellulite seems to have some genetic traits and a woman who is under lots of stress, has a sedentary lifestyle or is using birth control pills also faces a high risk of developing cellulite.

Treatment Modalities that have no Effect on Cellulite

There are many unsubstantiated claims regarding the treatment of cellulite and its control. Most of these treatments do not have much effect on the reduction of cellulite and might produce only some temporary effects on the skin rather than reaching out deep into the necessary areas.

Some such treatment modalities that have been claimed as being helpful for the treatment of cellulite include massage techniques and the use of topical applicants. Massage treatment is based on the fact that providing massage will help improve blood flow to the area, mobilizes free radicals that have gotten accumulated and reduces any inflammation. However, its effect on deep seated cellulite is very restricted and will only help in providing improvements to the skin.

Many topical applicants are available that claim to have effects in reducing the presence of cellulite. But, these creams and applicants that are available cannot reach the deep seated cellulite and will have little or absolutely no effect on reducing cellulite.

Another such is the use of liposuction. Liposuction is a process where in fat is removed from the body. Although this should theoretically help remove and treat cellulite, in practicality, this process does not have any effect in reducing cellulite. Instead, it is usually seen that the cosmetic concerns surrounding cellulite is even worse once liposuction has been performed.

Treatment Modalities that do Work for Cellulite

The use of radiofrequency systems either alone or in combination with lasers is the best method to help reduce cellulite. Radiofrequency systems make use of electromagnetic radiation to bring about changes in the target tissues and thus help in bringing about the necessary alterations.

The Principle behind Radio Frequency Systems

A Radio Frequency system will make use of an alternating current to generate electromagnetic radiation that is then applied onto the skin surface to reach out to deeper areas of cellulite on which it can make changes by converting these waves to heat energy. The resistance built up in tissues to the flow of current causes heating up of the target areas causing the necessary changes.

But, when the RF system is applied onto the skin surface, it can cause changes even to the layers of the skin. For this reason, to protect the skin from undergoing any changes and restricting the action to the deeper areas where cellulite is located, cooling systems using cryogen sprays or other cooling systems is utilized so that it does not cause any damage to the superficial layers of skin.

By the application of the RF system, changes are initiated in the tissues binding the skin to the underlying muscles. The fibers of the connective tissue undergo changes including some amount of remodeling that changes the way that these fibers connect to the underlying structures thereby reducing the unsightly appearance of cellulite.

Types of Radio Frequency Systems

Depending on the number of electrodes used in RF systems, the systems are classified into two types, namely, Unipolar and Bipolar RF systems.

In the unipolar or monopolar RF system, only one electrode is used to provide the alternating current to the skin surface. Since only one electrode is utilized in this system, there is the necessity of using a grounding pad to enable the flow of electric current through the body to reach the necessary target area where it has maximum action and then flow onto to reach the grounding pad to form the full circuit through which the current can continuously pass.

In the bipolar type of RF system, there are two electrodes for the passing of electric current. This eliminates the need for a grounding pad to complete the circuit and the current flows just through the two electrodes. The main advantage that this system has over the unipolar system is that the current does not flow right through the body.

Some systems make use of both unipolar and bipolar devices so that it has dual effects and provides the maximum benefit of both the systems.

Many devices even use a combination of RF systems along with lasers so that treatment can induce surface changes like skin resurfacing, skin tightening and skin rejuvenation while being capable of bringing about changes in deeper layers and effect cellulite reduction too.

Cellulite Reduction Using Radio Frequency systems

Prior to providing treatment procedure, initial assessment and consultations are performed. In these initial visits, careful planning is done. Instructions regarding precautions that need to be taken are provided. For example, undergoing tanning treatments or sunbathing should be avoided prior to the procedure.

The outcome of the procedure will be discussed so that the person undergoing the procedure will have realistic expectations. Medical history will be discussed to understand if there are any contraindications to taking the treatment.

Prior to commencing treatment, a topical anesthetic is applied onto the area that needs to be treated to help reduce the instance of pain. A cream or oil will be applied prior to placing the handpiece of the RF system so that it will reduce the chances of causing damage to the superficial layers of the skin. Then, the treating professional will make use of the handpiece of the RF system by placing it onto the area that needs to be treated. After completion of the treatment, an ice pack or compress will be applied to soothe the area.

Repeat sessions will be necessary before the desired results will be seen. The procedure is repeated two times in a week for about 7 to 10 repeat sessions until the optimal results are obtained and then maintained on a monthly repeat session for as long as is necessary.

Complications and Side Effects of Radio Frequency

Pain is an often reported side effect although it depends on the person’s threshold. So, if pain is of concern, topical anesthetics are used prior to the procedure to keep pain at a minimum.

Other commonly noted temporary side effects include redness and swelling of the areas that are treated. But, these are temporary and will disappear after a few days time and will be faster if soothing creams are applied onto the treated area.

Permanent side effects are very rare and often occur only in case of improper methods followed by the operating professional.

As we have seen, the use of Radio Frequency systems is the only effective means of reducing cellulite and improving the appearance of areas affected by cellulite. Although many different systems are available including some in combination with lasers, this is the best method that has shown promising results in reducing cellulite while many other methods that are available have little or no effects in addressing this unsightly cosmetic concern.


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Laser Hair Removal Sheffield- Complications and Side Effects

Complications and Side Effects of Laser Hair Removal






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Hirsutism & PCOS - Cosmetic Options in Sheffield!

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition wherein there is a hormonal imbalance and is characterized by the appearance of many cysts in the ovary especially along the outer edge. In this article, we will be covering a brief overview about the condition and dealing with a condition called Hirsutism that is commonly observed in women suffering from PCOS and is a major source of cosmetic concern.

Causes of PCOS- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

The exact causative factor for PCOS is not known. While it is commonly seen in families that have been suffering from the condition, it is not proved that PCOS has a hereditary trait. However, it has been inferred that a known familial history has a higher risk of women developing the condition although it need not be the norm.

Also, women suffering from diabetes, excess insulin production or insulin resistance are thought of to be at a higher risk of developing the condition as it is likely to cause hormonal changes in the ovaries. This hormonal imbalance can result in the formation of Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome.


Complications of PCOS - Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome

It is likely that women suffering from PCOS can also suffer from other conditions that can have an adverse effect on the health and can cause serious complications. Some of the associated conditions with PCOS include hypertension (high BP), diabetes, cholesterol imbalance, cancer of the lining of the uterus, etc. As there are many such possibilities of complications involved, it is essential to diagnose PCOS at the earliest and begin with treatment and other lifestyle changes to reduce the risks.

Symptoms of PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome)

The symptoms of PCOS usually begin at the very initial stages of a girl beginning to have her periods while this is not an absolute must as a few might develop signs and symptoms much later too. The signs and symptoms observed are quite varied and all of them might not be found in one single person.

Usually, the ovaries will contain a large number of cysts from which the name of the condition is derived. But, the presence of cysts alone is not enough to provide a positive diagnosis. It should have other signs and symptoms of the condition as well as some women might show the presence of cysts in the ovaries but no other symptoms.

One of the most important signs and symptoms of PCOS is the presence of abnormalities of the menstrual cycles like longer duration, lesser number of cycles, absence of cycles for a long period of time, extended duration of cycles with heavy bleeding or just spotting.

Women suffering from PCOS have greater amount of difficulty in getting pregnant due to abnormal menstrual cycles and problems with ovulation. Also, the condition is most likely to co-exist with obesity and this co-existence is more likely to result in other complications such as hypertension, diabetes, and the possibility of stroke.

Hormonal imbalance is a frequently seen problem associated with PCOS. The ovaries secrete hormones called androgens (male hormones) and testosterone. In women with PCOS, the levels of androgens are likely to be higher. This high level of androgen is the cause for problems such as hirsutism (higher amount of hair on the face and body) along with other conditions like acne and male pattern baldness. This complication of PCOS is of cosmetic concern and many women seek treatment to help overcome these problems.

Let us now understand more about Hirsutism and how it is treated to help overcome the cosmetic complications arising out of the condition.

Hirsutism is that condition wherein a woman is developing hair growth similar to patterns observed in men and is caused directly due to the excess production of a hormone called androgen by the ovaries. So, women suffering from the condition are more likely to suffer from excess hair growth in the face and parts of the body like the chest and the back.

While Hirsutism is most likely to be associated with PCOS, other conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia, Cushing’s syndrome, certain medications and the presence of some tumors of the ovaries are also likely to cause the condition.

Signs and Symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Along with the usual symptom of excess body hair, there might be other signs and symptoms present. Some such might include male pattern baldness, reduction in breast size, acne, deepening of the voice like in men, clitoral enlargement, etc.

The condition is diagnosed with observations during a physical exam and with blood testing to determine the levels of androgen and testosterone. In some cases, other associated causes might need to be determined using more testing using diagnostic tools like ultrasound or CT scanning.

Treatment of Hirsutism

The treatment for the condition will involve use of self-care remedies, hair removal with certain therapy and the use of some medications.

Self-Care Remedies

The woman can herself perform some self care remedies to help overcome the problem of appearance caused from unwanted hair. Some such methods can include use of tweezers for plucking the unwanted hair but this method will not be useful for removing hair when present in more amounts as it is more cumbersome and is generally preferred when removing hair from the face. Other methods include shaving although many women do not prefer it, waxing and the use of chemical depilatories to remove the unwanted body hair especially in areas with larger quantities of hair. Some women even have the habit of bleaching to make the hair appear lighter and avoid visibility.

Therapies to Eradicate Excess Hair

Electrolysis is a commonly adopted therapy to remove excess body hair permanently. This method involves the use of a low dose electric current to the hair follicle to obliterate it and to prevent further growth of the hair from it.

Laser hair removal is another procedure that is commonly adopted to remove unnecessary body hair seen in patients suffering from Hirsutism. This therapy involves the passing of a laser beam to cause the destruction of the hair follicles and to avoid growth of hair. Laser hair removal will allow for long periods of time when the hair will not re-grow back and will help reduce the cosmetic apprehension that women face when they suffer from this condition.

Medications for Hirsutism

If the woman is not trying to become pregnant, then the woman is put on birth control oral pills that contain hormones like estrogen and progestin. These hormonal contraceptives will prevent the release of excess androgens from the ovaries and thus help in eliminating the symptoms seen.

Some women are even put on oral medications like spironolactone that have an effect on reducing the production of androgens and have an effect on blocking its effects. There are certain prescription creams too available that women are advised to apply on the areas of the face where there is excess of hair and will have an effect in reducing it.

Also, the treatment of other associated conditions too might be essential for successful elimination of the signs and symptoms of the hirsutism and making women less apprehensive regarding cosmetic concerns arising from the condition.

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