Everything You Wanted to Know About a Neck Lift

For many of us, when we look in the mirror the first signs of ageing that often catch our eye are the smaller lines and wrinkles around our eyes and mouth. Where we don’t often look for signs of ageing is our necks and yet the reality is; the neck can show visible signs of ageing, often before anything else.


The combined effects of the loss of elasticity and the harsh Australian sun can also take their toll on the appearance of our necks, leaving some people with ageing necks and unhappily looking much older than they feel. As we age, it is both our face and neck that become susceptible to sagging skin, excess fat and a loosening of the muscles. Fluctuating weight and heredity factors can also contribute to the appearance of an ageing neck, with both of these factors contributing to deep creases, folds and loose skin in the neck region.  A surgical neck lift procedure can be extremely effective in addressing these signs of ageing, while also restoring a more youthful
appearance to both the neck area and the lower face region.

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Who is a Good Candidate for a Neck Lift?

A neck lift can only be performed surgically, though there are some non-surgical procedures that may help to delay the time at which a neck lift becomes appropriate. However, once the neck has visibly aged, one of the most common complaints amongst both women and men regarding their necks is the loss of contour and definition in the neck area that only continues to worsen over the years.


While both our face and our neck can exhibit unwanted characteristics of ageing, for some of us, it is the neck region in particular that can result in us looking old, and in some cases, looking even older than we actually are. For these patients, a surgical neck lift can produce excellent, targeted results.


Other ideal candidates for a neck lift are those who have lost a considerable amount of weight or those who have hereditary conditions that can contribute to the signs of a sagging neck. For these patients, it is the appearance of a “turkey neck” or a double, or even triple
chins that can be their most unwanted physical traits. Neck lift surgery can also correct these unwanted features by achieving a well-contoured and defined neck and jawline.


Many women and men also choose to undergo a neck lift surgery when they are younger as this can be a less invasive procedure than when it is undertaken as an older patient. By choosing to correct the signs of ageing in the neck area at a younger age, you can enjoy the
results of a youthful appearing neck for many years.


A neck lift surgery is also often paired with liposuction to remove the unwanted fat from the neck and chin area. With a neck lift and liposuction are both applied to the neck area, these two procedures can result in a much more slimmed and defined neck and jawline, resulting in patients looking and feeling much younger.

The Neck Lift (Platysmaplasty ) Procedure

For most of us, the drooping appearance of the neck is often due to a thickening and loosening of the platysma (neck) muscle. A neck lift surgery is usually performed to improve the appearance of the neck and the region under the jawline by reducing the skin that may be loose or sagging due to the ageing effects of the platysma loosening.

For the right patient, a neck lift can be a highly effective surgery that restores a more youthful appearance to the entire neck and lower face areas. By tightening the skin, the neck lift procedure can also eliminate the deep lines in the neck, as well as the dreaded “turkey neck” effect and the appearance of multiple chins.

As the ageing of the neck and the neck muscles is highly unpredictable, a neck lift surgery must be individually assessed and tailored by Dr Dilip Gahankari to suit your specific anatomy and your needs. A neck lift surgery with the highly skilled and qualified plastic surgeon Dr Dilip Gahankari will improve your overall appearance, creating a pleasing, more youthful and long-lasting result.

You can expect the neck lift surgery to create a smoother appearance of the neck, with the main aim of this surgery being the elevation of the upper back corner of the platysma (neck muscle). This is surgery is generally accessed through a small incision around the earlobe, at the angle of the jaw, with the neck lift procedure generally taking between less than three hours to complete.

What Results Can I Expect from a Neck Lift?

A neck lift is usually performed to improve the appearance of both the neck and under the jawline by reducing the loose and sagging skin that is most often due to the thickening and drooping of the platysma muscle.
By tightening the skin and muscles, the neck lift procedure can eliminate the appearance of
multiple chins as well as creating a generally smoother, less lined appearance to the entire
neck region. The incisions of a neck lift are typically small and heal easily. The scarring from this procedure is also minimal and the recovery time is generally short.

The Neck Lift with Other Procedures

Usually, our faces and necks will age in harmony, but if your neck looks like it is older than your face, then the neck lift performed on its own should achieve excellent results. However, this surgery is often accompanied by other procedures to achieve optimal results. 

As the face and neck tend to age together, for these patients a neck lift should also include the elevation of the lower face. A thorough evaluation with Dr Dilip Gahankari will determine the most appropriate course of action, suggested specifically to address your concerns and expectations.

Other procedures that are often performed in conjunction with a neck lift include fat transfer, liposuction, genionplasty (chin implant surgery), lips and cheek enhancement or eyelid surgery.  

The use of dermal fillers can also help to replace some lost bone structure, typically around the jawline area. Some added fillers to the upper mid face can also add a pleasing “lift” to the entire face, including the lower facial area. 

As with all of Dr Dilip Gahankari procedures, both surgical and non-surgical, the aim is to work with you to create as much balance and harmony to the face and neck as possible, while also retaining a natural and healthy appearance.

The Neck Lift Cost

To ensure the neck lift surgery is the right procedure for you, book a free and private consultation with Dr Dilip Gahankari. By reviewing your facial structure and discussing your expectations, Dr Gahankari can suggest the right procedure to suit your individual needs. 

The total cost of your surgery will be discussed with you during your free consultation with Dr Dilip Gahankari. 

Labiaplasty Surgery

For women, the ‘normal’ range of the labia minora (the inner lips of the vaginal opening) appearance is broad. For some women, the labia minora are longer and overly protrude beyond the length of the labia majora – the outer ‘lips’ of the of the opening of the vagina. 

For many women, their dislike of the appearance of their labia minora is a genuine issue. Some women also experience physical discomfort by simply wearing certain clothing. As well, some women also experience discomfort as well during intercourse. For these women and all these reasons, a Labiaplasty procedure may offer an extremely effective solution.

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Why Choose a Labiaplasty Procedure?

While the appearance of the labia minor is different for every woman, age can also play a part in the appearance of the labia minor changing in shape and appearance. A vaginal delivery of a baby can also cause the appearance of the labia minor to change. 

While the impacts of age and vaginal birth to the labia minor are completely normal, however, for some women, these changes are not pleasing. The unwanted change of appearance or the side effects of discomfort, especially during sex can cause distress for many women.

A woman’s self-esteem is precious and something to be honoured. If something impacts a woman’s confidence and comfortability, choosing a safe and effective solution can be an empowering experience. It is worth knowing that the Labiaplasty surgical procedure has an extremely high rate of patient satisfaction.

Your Labiaplasty Pre-Surgery Consultation

In your initial pre-surgery consultation, Dr Dilip will discuss the various procedural options with you and outline the best procedure to suit your individual needs and expectations. Please know that there is absolutely no need to feel embarrassed in discussing this procedure as Dr Dilip has many years of successfully performing the labiaplasty surgery.

It is important for those women who are considering this surgery that the Labiaplasty procedure does not tighten the vagina or increase sexual stimulation. The Labiaplasty procedure can however decrease sexual and emotional distress and any discomfort that may be caused by an enlarged or an abnormally shaped labia minora.

What is the Labiaplasty Procedure?

There are a range of different labiaplasty procedures, so it is very important that you only choose a specialised and qualified plastic surgeon, such as Dr Dilip Gahankari who has decades of experience in reconstructive plastic surgery. Dr Dilip will discuss the best procedural techniques for your individual needs.

Labiaplasty is not an overly complex surgery, but it is still a delicate surgery that requires qualified and skilled hands and vast, relevant experience. Labiaplasty surgery is essentially a cosmetic reduction of the labia minor, though this may additionally involve some reshaping of the labia minor. 

The Labiaplasty procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Dr Dilip will discuss with you the appropriate care that you will require, including the type of anaesthesia and if a hospital stay is required. All this will be discussed in detail in your initial consultation with Dr Dilip Gahankari.

Recovery after Labiaplasty

A good recovery from any surgery hinges on going into surgery – in your best possible health. Be sure to be a committed non-smoker and avoid any excess alcohol in the weeks leading up to your surgery. It is also important to eat and rest well in the leadup to your surgery. Additionally, you may find it helpful to prepare in advance any assistance you may require after surgery, including childcare. 

As with any plastic surgery, there will be a certain level of discomfort after the surgery. You can expect the area around the labia to be uncomfortable for a couple of days after surgery. However, Dr Dilip will ensure that your pain is well managed with the appropriate pain medication to ensure that you are comfortable as possible after your Labiaplasty surgery. 

After Labiaplasty surgery it is important that you refrain from sex and the use of tampons for at least six weeks. This will give you the best chance to heal the delicate labia region after surgery.  Light physical duties and walking can generally be resumed after two to six days, depending on your level of discomfort. 

It is also important to wear loose clothing for obvious reasons. All these points will be discussed in detail prior to surgery with Dr Dilip and his staff. Dr Dilip’s supporting staff will always be on hand to assist you at every step of your recovery journey. You can expect to resume to normal daily activities, usually within three weeks after surgery. All stiches used for this procedure are absorbable.

Labiaplasty Before and After

Prior to your labiaplasty surgery you would have discussed the desired size and shape of the labia minor with Dr Dilip. You can expect to see the results immediately after surgery – though there will be swelling and incisions that will be healing. For most women, the final results will be fully and happily evident after a healthy healing period of approximately two months.

Scars are always present after any invasive surgery. A skilled and qualified plastic surgeon such as Dr Dilip will minimise any visible scars with incision placement in easily hidden sites. Any scars will naturally improve with time, resulting in a more pleasing looking labia minor, that is also more comfortable physically and emotionally.

Cost of Labiaplasty Australia

The cost of your Labiaplasty surgery will depend on the procedure, or the combination of techniques involved in your particular surgery. Dr Dilip Gahankari and the staff will go through the full costs with you in advance, including the cost of your hospital stay (if required) and your anaesthetist. 

Choosing a Qualified and Experienced Labiaplasty Plastic Surgeon

Dr Dilip Gahankari is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons, Fellows of The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS). The Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) is fully accredited by the Australian Medical Council which is the only body authorised by the Commonwealth Government to certify all medical training. 

Only genuine plastic surgeons in Australia are members of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons or ASPS.

All You Need to Know About a Nose Job (Rhinoplasty) – And How Much Does a Nose Job in Australia Cost?

A nose is central to a person’s face. The size of the nose, the shape and the proportion of the nose to the other facial features has a dramatic impact on the overall attractiveness of a person’s face. While there is no one size-fits all, or a perfect nose, there are many people who may have concerns with their nose for a variety of reasons. 

Generally, people – men and women – seek attention for a nose job because they may feel that their nose is too big for their face or too small or too wide. Sometimes they may not be happy with parts of nose such as the middle – where some may have a ‘hump’, or tip, which may be too wide or too ‘bulbous’ looking. 

Sometimes – and not very uncommonly – the nose may be quite crooked either from its growth or after an injury or sort. However, in more than 50 per cent of these men and women seeking a ‘nose-job’ there is an element of obstructed breathing. This is often from a crooked ‘septum’ (the partition wall between the two nasal cavities) or enlarged internal bones such as ‘turbinates’. Occasionally there may be other internal reasons for obstructed breathing that Dr Gahankari will investigate prior to nose surgery. 

The good news is the Rhinoplasty procedure today has vastly advanced in knowledge, technology and techniques. It is also often less invasive, often performed as a day surgery procedure, and with relatively quick recovery. No wonder the nose job is the world’s most popular facial surgery!

Why Do People Choose to Have a Nose Job?

There are many benefits of having this procedure, which is why having a nose job is the most in-demand facial surgery procedure. A re-shaped nose can improve the overall attractiveness of the face by creating balance, symmetry and refinement. Successful Rhinoplasty surgery can – and often does – increase a person’s self-confidence. 

While people choose to have a nose job procedure for a variety of reasons, the most common motivation involves reducing the size or altering the shape of the nose and also improving breathing at the same time. A refined nose is considered in our culture as desirable – as long as it is within proportion to the rest of the face.

Patients who have breathing problems because of irregularities in the internal structure of their nose can also have this remedied at the same time as the visible nose alterations are being undertaken.

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“What about me?” asks the Chin

“Well, it is surprisingly common to see that men and women expressing their ‘concern’ about their rather ‘big’ nose, actually have smaller ‘chin’ and believe it or not, a relatively smaller or retruded (set back) chin can make the nose ‘stick out’ a bit more on face and makes it look bigger,” explains Dr Gahankari. 

Importantly, Dr Gahankari has a 3D imaging software and a 3D camera system called Vectra in the office, and this cool software – is quite clever in determining asymmetries, size and shape estimation and also assessing the relationship of size of nose and chin to the rest of the face. 

Dr Gahankari will normally use this Vectra system to educate his clients about their nose and chin and would be able to modify (simulate the surgery results) of your nose. This helps him to know your expectations and to assist in explaining the possible results that he may be able to offer you by nose surgery. 

Choosing Your Rhinoplasty Surgeon

Rhinoplasty is acknowledged, for good reason, to be one of the more complicated and specialised plastic surgeries. A successful nose job will require a highly trained, qualified and experienced Plastic surgeon, such as Dr Dilip Gahankari. The success or failure of a Rhinoplasty procedure can come down to mere millimetres, which is why you should only choose someone who is both highly qualified and experienced. 

It takes a trained eye and years of experience to achieve the specialised qualifications in the field of Rhinoplasty. Do not risk your nose, your face or your health with anyone less than an Australian qualified Plastic Surgeon with the letter FRACS (Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons) after his or her name, such as Dr Dilip Gahankari FRACS, who is also a member of the esteemed Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS).

What to Expect at Your Initial Nose Job Consultation

At your pre-operative consultation, our plastic surgeon Dr Dilip Gahankari will examine the proportions of your nose and perform an intra-nasal examination. A discussion will then follow, outlining your expectations and discussing what is possible and what you can realistically expect.

Dr Dilip Gahankari may also use medical image morphing software to simulate the predicted results of your rhinoplasty surgery. It is important to understand that everyone is different, your rhinoplasty may involve only a small procedure – such as removing a small bump on the nose, or a more extensive rhinoplasty procedure may be required to reshape your nose in accordance with your expectations. All this will be discussed in detail with Dr Dilip Gahankari.

The earliest recommended age Dr Dilip Gahankari recommends for having this procedure is the mid-teens (with parental consult) because the nose may still be growing. There is generally no upper age limit providing the patient is in good health.

What is the Procedure for a Nose Job?

With rhinoplasty, there are two common methods used, the Open technique and the Closed technique. In the Closed technique, incisions are made inside the nose and the cartilage is worked from with the nostrils.

In the Open technique, in addition to any internal incisions, there is a small incision that is made across your columella (at the base of the cartilage that separates your nostrils). The skin is then lifted, allowing the surgeon greater access to perform the procedure. The open technique is more common, more predictable and usually more successful.

A Rhinoplasty procedure usually lasts between two to three hours however, this depends on the individual and what kind of nasal surgery they are having.

What is the Procedure for a Nose Job?

With rhinoplasty, there are two common methods used, the Open technique and the Closed technique. In the Closed technique, incisions are made inside the nose and the cartilage is worked from with the nostrils.

In the Open technique, in addition to any internal incisions, there is a small incision that is made across your columella (at the base of the cartilage that separates your nostrils). The skin is then lifted, allowing the surgeon greater access to perform the procedure. The open technique is more common, more predictable and usually more successful.

A Rhinoplasty procedure usually lasts between two to three hours however, this depends on the individual and what kind of nasal surgery they are having.

Recovery from a Nose Job

Immediately after the procedure there will be discolouration, swelling and bleeding and perhaps some bruising. It is important to understand – as with any facial surgery –it will look worse before it looks better. 

Patience is required to allow time for the swelling of the nose to go down. Again, the amount of swelling will depend on the type of Rhinoplasty you are having. Closed Rhinoplasty tends to heal quicker, than the more invasive, Open Rhinoplasty procedure. 

In many cases, a Rhinoplasty is completed as a day surgery procedure, though some patients may be more comfortable staying overnight in hospital. If nasal packs are used, they are removed between 24 – 48 hrs and the external splint is worn continuously for at least 7-10 days after surgery. Most of the swelling of the nose and eyes subsides within a month of the rhinoplasty, however, subtle bruising and swelling subsides gradually and may take up to 6 months to one year to completely subside.

How Much Does a Nose Job Cost? 

This will depend on the type of Rhinoplasty you are having and the amount of work that is involved in your particular surgery. Dr Dilip Gahankari and the staff will go through the full costs with you, including the cost of your hospital stay (if required) and your anaesthetist. 

What Results Can I Expect from a Rhinoplasty?

Once the swelling starts to go down you will begin to see your new nose. A modern Rhinoplasty can achieve very natural results with very little (if at all) visible scarring. The vast majority of patients after healing and the swelling has subsided are extremely happy with their results.

Again, it is important to know that everyone’s circumstances, expectations and rate of recovery is different. In other words, the results of any nose job are unique to each individual – and the skill of your surgeon. In the qualified hands of Dr Dilip Gahankari, your nose surgery will result in better facial balance and an improved and enhanced overall appearance.

Tummy Tuck Australia – Tummy Tuck Procedure, Recovery and Tummy Tuck Cost in Australia

Regardless of your diet or the amount you exercise, for some of us, the dreaded tummy ‘spare tyre’ also unflatteringly called, ‘muffin top’ can be a stubborn and depressing problem for both women and men.

There are a variety of reasons why a tummy can be persistently loose. A pregnancy, or substantial weight loss, as well as other medical and genetic reasons, can make it impossible to reduce excess skin and fat in the abdominal area.  A tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) in conjunction with liposculpting can be an effective procedure that removes persistent and unwanted excess skin and fat.

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The Yummy Mummy Makeover – With a Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is popular with both men and women, but it is mothers who are the largest cohort enjoying the benefits of this procedure. Multiple pregnancies can result in the separation of the rectus (abdominal) muscles and this can cause a weakening of your core, creating an unattractive tummy bulge. 

Specialist plastic surgeon, Dr Dilip Gahankari has vast experience in addressing this issue for mothers effectively. Often the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure is also accompanied with liposculpting, resulting in the best possible outcomes. It is recommended mothers plan for their tummy tuck surgery only when they know they won’t be having any more of those beautiful babies.

What are the Benefits of a Tummy Tuck / Abdominoplasty Procedure?

The reasons to have a tummy tuck – and the benefits of this procedure, vary widely. An abdominoplasty tightens muscles that may have become loose or split following pregnancy, the procedure can also remove excess skin from the abdomen for those that have lost substantial weight. It is important to realise that a tummy tuck is not a substitute to a healthy diet and exercise, but it can be a wonderful supplement for those that find this region of the body difficult to improve without surgical support.

Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Benefits Can Include:

  • The appearance of the abdomen to create a firmer, flatter and smoother profile.

  • Improvement to both the shape and the tone of the tummy area.

  • The restoration of any weakened or separated muscles.

  • Alleviation of any associated pain with separated muscles.

  • Improved stress incontinence caused by weak core-strength due to muscle separation.

  • Improvement of irritated skin and any skin infections caused by excess skin.

  • Possible reduction of some stretch marks (in the treated areas).

  • Reduction of lower backache caused by weakened core-strength due to muscle separation*. 

*A recently published multicentre Australian study of which Dr Dilip Gahankari has contributed to, has suggested possible benefits of improvement of stress incontinence and lower backache in post-pregnancy abdominoplasty.

What Does the Tummy Tuck Procedure (Abdominoplasty) Involve?

The abdominoplasty procedure involves an incision at the lower abdomen. Dr Dilip Gahankari also performs liposculpture during abdominoplasty procedures to further contour the tummy and the hip area, creating the best possible ‘sculptured’ results, while also reducing the length of the scar.

Tummy Tuck Recovery

It is important to know that we are all different and that includes how we recover from any surgery. Dr DilIp Gahankari will discuss your surgical options and recovery times at your initial consultation to give you a clearer idea of how long your recovery may take. 

As a rough guide, you can return to work and light exercise after three weeks, and to your normal life after six to eight weeks (but still avoiding anything strenuous effecting the abdominal wall). Again, fuller and more personalised details regarding this procedure will be explained to you by Dr Dilip Gahankari during your initial consultation.

Tummy Tuck Recovery Tips Include:

  • Prepare yourself, get excited and go into surgery in your best possible health – while maintaining a healthy weight prior to surgery.
  • Follow all the directions given to you by Dr Dilip Gahankari for your best recovery. 
  • Prepare in advance your transport, medication and any help required at home.
  • Take all medications as directed by Dr Dilip Gahankari.
  • Manage your expectations. Everyone is different but expect some discomfort. Know that the more you look after yourself in the pre-surgery and recovery period, the sooner you will be out and about, enjoying the results of your Tummy Tuck procedure.

How Much Does a Tummy Tuck Cost?

It is important to understand that everyone is different, including their physical circumstances, health and expectations. First, you will need a referral from your GP to see Dr Dilip Gahankari. During your initial consultation, the recommendations specific to you and the costs will be outlined and discussed.

Medicare or private fund benefits may be applicable for you, subject to your private fund’s coonditions and the fulfillment of the Medicare criteria for the Abdominoplasty procedure. Medicare will provide a modest rebate if you satisfy the weight loss criteria introduced in 2016 (see below). 

Does Medicare Cover a Tummy Tuck? 

To claim the Medicare item number (30177) for a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure you will need to demonstrate a number of physical characteristics:

  • You have had significant weight loss defined as 5 BMI points or more (unrelated to pregnancy). 
  • For women this would mean a weight loss of at least 15kgs or more, without weight fluctuations for at least six months.
  • If you have a hernia which can be documented in an ultrasound – it can also assist in seeking coverage.
  • The level of excess skin is interfering with your daily living.
  • The use of non-surgical treatment for skin irritation caused by excess skin has failed to work for you.