When it comes to cosmetic surgery – for example breast augmentation (or implants), or a breast lift – is technology or technique more important? We meet three plastic surgeons in Singapore who work together so you can have both.
Breast procedures and technology
One popular cosmetic breast procedure is augmentation, done either via implants or fat grafting (using your own fat from another part of your body). Women who would like perkier breasts without an increase in size can consider a mastopexy, the medical term for a breast lift. As it aims to lift the nipple and provide a more aesthetic-looking form, mastopexy is often done in conjunction with breast reduction. The latter is an option for those who want to manage the size of their breasts.
Technology has come a long way since the first documented breast augmentation surgery in 1963. Today, surgeons have a plethora of tools to improve the quality of these procedures, as well as the whole process, from consultation to post-surgical care.
AZATACA Plastic Surgery uses breast implants from two widely regarded brands on the market, Motiva and Mentor. Motiva offers a variety of implant types to choose from, including the gel-based ProgressiveGel Plus and Ultima implants, which create a softer and more natural look.
Fat grafting is another popular method of breast enhancement; after liposuction has removed fat from stubborn areas of the body, that fat is used for breast augmentation. The clinic utilises Puregraft, a clinically approved fat transfer system that processes fat in a sterile environment. Tulip cannulas are used in the aspiration process, controlling the size of the graft. These technologies help increase the yield of fat, improving the efficiency of the liposuction and augmentation.
Also, to help patients visualise the results, AZATACA offers Crisalix 3D Imaging services during the pre-operative assessment. Along with physical sizers, this 3D Imaging puts patients more at ease since they know exactly what they’re getting. It also ensures there are no unpleasant surprises along the way.
The benefits of group practice
While technology is one part of the equation, the doctor you choose can make all the difference. At AZATACA, Dr Rasheed, Dr Goh and Dr Chui have a combined 30 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery. But it’s the group practice aspect of the clinic that really sets it apart.
Never heard of a group plastic surgery clinic? That’s because it’s not all that common. Yet, there are definite benefits with this approach. When you choose AZATACA’s group practice, it means you’re working with three doctors instead of one. This means thrice the experience, expertise and support. Dr Chui elaborates, “We can provide a better experience for our patients together, because we’re equipped to take on more complex surgeries that aren’t possible alone.”
All three surgeons are MOH-accredited, in addition to being awarded the prestigious Health Manpower Development Plan (HDMP) fellowship. Importantly, they’ve also worked with each other since their university days; so they have a real chemistry. Dr Goh says, “Plastic surgery is a team sport – it’s meant to be done in partnership. Because of our background, we’re comfortable in a team. We bounce ideas off each other, and our learning never stops as we constantly inspire each other to be better.”
New Location
The clinic has recently opened a new MOH-accredited surgery centre at Royal Square, Novena. Dr Rasheed says, “With this, we’re better able to provide more comfort for patients; we can take on more procedures on-site, which means more time dedicated to our patients, with less traffic and hassle.”
AZATACA Plastic Surgery
• #14-09 Royal Square Medical Centre 101 Irrawaddy Road 67788648 | 96490648 (WhatsApp)
• #15-11 Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth 67671648 | 9649 0648 (WhatsApp)
www.azataca.com
Read this guide to beauty salons in Singapore if you are looking for a good facial!
This article first appeared in the November 2020 edition of Expat Living. You can purchase the latest issue or subscribe, so you never miss a copy!
