Latest news with #ChrysisSofianos
IOL News
4 days ago
- Lifestyle
- IOL News
How African women are embracing tummy tucks as a tool for empowerment
The procedure is increasingly being embraced by women as a powerful tool for self-reclamation. Image: / Pexels Once reserved for celebrities and kept a secret, the tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, is shedding its taboo image in South Africa. The procedure is increasingly being embraced by women as a powerful tool for self-reclamation, with a notable surge in interest among Black African women who are openly choosing to restore their bodies and confidence on their own terms. Leading this shift is Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a respected figure in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. "Cosmetic surgery is less about vanity and more about feeling at home in your own skin again," he explains. "It's often an important investment in self-worth, confidence, and acceptance. And tummy tucks, especially post-pregnancy or after weight loss, are one of the most powerful tools we have in body restoration." What is a tummy tuck? A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen while tightening weakened or separated abdominal muscles. The result is a smoother, firmer, and more contoured silhouette. Professor Sofianos customises each procedure, often combining it with targeted liposuction to sculpt the waist and flanks for a balanced result. He performs two primary types of tummy tucks: Mini tummy tuck: Suitable for those with minimal skin laxity below the belly button, it involves a smaller incision and faster recovery. Full tummy tuck: Best for individuals with excess skin across the entire abdomen, this procedure often includes muscle repair and repositioning of the belly button. Professor Sofianos emphasises that this is not a weight-loss solution but rather a definitive answer for loose, stretched skin that no amount of diet or exercise can fix. "I see so many women who've done everything right... But the skin has been stretched beyond its ability to retract," he says. "In those cases, a tummy tuck is simply the only way to remove that excess skin and reveal the body they've worked so hard for." Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. 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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ A tummy tuck is a simple way to remove excess skin. Image: Freepik Debunking myths Professor Sofianos is at the forefront of challenging the outdated notion that cosmetic surgery is not for Black women. He and his team are actively working to debunk several persistent myths: "Black women don't undergo cosmetic surgery." This is simply not true. An increasing number of African women, particularly urban professionals and mothers, are integrating aesthetic surgery into their self-care journeys. "Cosmetic surgery is only for Western beauty ideals." Today's patients are not seeking to conform but rather to refine and restore their natural features, celebrating their unique beauty while boosting self-confidence. "It's not safe for Black skin." While specific considerations like a greater risk of keloid scarring exist, Professor Sofianos' expertise in diverse skin types ensures a tailored and safe approach. "The key is understanding different skin anatomies and healing patterns," he states. Rewriting the mommy makeover narrative One of Professor Sofianos' high-profile patients, reality TV star and entrepreneur Nozipho Ntshangase from The Mommy Club, is openly sharing her journey. Following the birth of her five children, Ntshangase chose to prioritise herself by undergoing a mommy makeover that included a tailored tummy tuck. "After my last three children, I struggled to love my body," she shared. "Despite staying active and living healthily, my confidence took a knock. I finally chose to do the outer and inner work on myself." Her candidness has sparked an important national conversation, empowering women, especially African women, to acknowledge the physical toll of motherhood and unapologetically take control of their bodies. As Professor Sofianos notes, "Nozipho's journey is a reminder that we don't need to justify wanting to feel good in our own skin. She's helping dismantle outdated ideas that surgery is selfish. Sometimes, self-care looks like rest. Other times, it looks like surgery." IOL Lifestyle Get your news on the go, click here to join the IOL News WhatsApp channel.
The Citizen
04-08-2025
- Health
- The Citizen
The new boob job: faster recovery, more natural results
The new boob job: faster recovery, more natural results Forget everything you thought you knew about breast surgery as there is a new procedure in town that's making breast enhancement less invasive, faster healing and delivers a more natural result. Rapid recovery breast augmentation isn't the same breast surgery of a decade ago. By placing implants above the muscle but under the fascia, patients benefit from improved support, fewer complications, and significantly faster healing – without compromising on aesthetic outcomes. Designed for natural movement and feel Central to this shift is the use of Motiva implants – next-generation breast implants designed to move with the body and mimic the feel of natural breast tissue. The ergonomic design adapts to posture and movement, and the cohesive gel leads to long term stability and peace of mind for patients. The hybrid advantage: subtle enhancement, dual benefit A hybrid breast augmentation combines a smaller implant with a small volume of the patient's own fat – harvested via liposuction from areas like the flanks or thighs. The fat is then purified and strategically injected into the upper pole of the breast to enhance fullness, create smoother transitions, and improve cleavage. Who is it for? First-time patients who want a more natural, undetectable outcome Women with concerns about traditional under-the-muscle placement Patients seeking a faster return to normal activity with less pain Those desiring both breast enhancement and mild body contouring when fat transfer is performed Ladies who are considering their first augmentation or an even revision, provided a breast lift is not required The timeline: Surgical time averages around 60–90 minutes. Most patients return to light activity within 3–5 days. Full results settle over 3–6 months. Scarring may take up to a year to settle, however visible results are noticeable immediately. The cost: The investment for a standard breast augmentation starts at around R85,000, depending on the patient's anatomy and surgical goals. Where appropriate, the pricing for a hybrid breast augmentation (implant with fat transfer) starts at around R125 000. For many, the balance of aesthetic reward and reduced downtime makes it a compelling, confidence-boosting choice. Leading plastic and reconstructive surgeon Professor Chrysis Sofianos at CS Surgery believes the growing popularity of rapid recovery techniques reflects a deeper shift in how women approach cosmetic procedures: informed, intentional, and unapologetic. For more articles on the latest medical technology out there, visit Get It Magazine.
IOL News
30-06-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Chasing perfection: why South Africans are betting their lives on bargain cosmetic procedures abroad
Despite the presence of top-tier surgeons in South Africa, citizens are increasingly opting for foreign clinics. Image: Pixabay/pexels We've all seen the glossy before-and-afters on Instagram: a tummy tuck in Turkey, a Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL)in Mexico, or a budget-friendly nose job in Thailand often sold as part of a 'surgery holiday' package. But behind these airbrushed posts lies a sobering truth: the growing wave of medical tourism for cosmetic procedures is costing people far more than they bargained for, sometimes, even their lives. Between 2009 and 2022, 93 US citizens died in the Dominican Republic following cosmetic surgery, mainly due to fat embolisms, according to CDC data. In Turkey, at least 28 British nationals have lost their lives since 2019 from complications after cosmetic procedures. And those are just the reported deaths. So, what's happening behind the scenes of these so-called beauty bargains? And why are South Africans increasingly drawn to foreign clinics despite having top-tier surgeons at home? We spoke to Professor Chrysis Sofianos, one of South Africa's leading plastic and reconstructive surgeons, who is sounding the alarm: 'These aren't isolated tragedies; they're symptoms of a much bigger, dangerous trend.' The red flags we ignore Many patients travel abroad hoping to save money or chase the results they've seen on influencers. But what social media doesn't show is the rushed consultations, language barriers, lack of follow-up care and the sometimes illegal activity that happens under the knife. Sofianos says, 'There have been reports of patients returning from surgery in Turkey missing organs, like kidneys, removed and likely sold on the black market. That's how far this has gone.' Even when surgeries go 'well', complications can arise: delayed wound healing, infections, seromas, implant malposition, or worse. Many patients travel abroad hoping to save money or chase the results they've seen on influencers. Image: X/TakaThimna These risks are amplified when you're on a plane two days later or recovering in an unlicensed hotel with no medical staff on standby. The real cost of 'cheap' While a Brazilian Butt Lift might cost R40 000 abroad versus R90 000 locally, Sofianos says, "Patients don't factor in emergency revisions, hospitalisation, or specialist consultations. 'These procedures aren't actually cheap in the long run. Patients often end up paying more to fix botched procedures at home,' he explains. 'I've had to perform revision surgeries, drain fluid build-ups, and treat life-threatening infections, all from complications that could've been avoided with proper care.' To make matters worse, most medical aid schemes won't cover complications from elective overseas procedures, leaving patients with the full bill and often emotional trauma. What you're not paying for overseas? The upfront price tag may seem enticing, but overseas clinics often cut costs by rushing pre-op assessments, packing multiple surgeries into a single day, and offering minimal post-op care. Safety is sacrificed for volume. 'In South Africa, plastic surgeons go through more than a decade of rigorous training, much of it in high-pressure trauma and burn units,' Sofianos explains. 'We're not just cosmetic doctors, we're surgeons trained to handle complex, life-threatening cases.' He adds that local pricing reflects this comprehensive journey: hospital-grade anaesthesia, sterile theatres, certified teams, and personal aftercare. 'It's not just about the hour in the operating room, it's about the whole process, start to finish.' Influencer illusions: The role of social media Many people are swayed by filtered images and sponsored posts, where influencers glamorise their 'surgery journeys' abroad. 'But what you don't see are the complications, the regret, the revisions, and the silent suffering,' Sofianos warns Some influencers are paid either in cash or surgery discounts to promote foreign clinics. This marketing often blurs the line between lifestyle content and medical advice, which can be dangerous.
News24
04-06-2025
- Entertainment
- News24
Kris Jenner's new face and the rise of the deep plane facelift
Kris Jenner is believed to have gotten the deep plane facelift from U.S. surgeon Dr Steven Levine. This lift restores natural volume to the cheeks, enhances the jawline and can cost up to R275 000. Local doctors reveal South African cosmetic enhancement trends like fat grafting and platelet-rich plasma therapy. _______________________________________________________________________ Everyone and their mother is talking about Kris Jenner's new face. The famed momager to the A-list socialite family created a world of buzz when she stepped out in Paris looking like she'd just drunk from the fountain of youth. Kris' procedure is believed to be a deep plane facelift. Locally, actor Khanyi Mbau's blepharoplasty also sparked a conversation about a major trend: the rise of natural-looking facelifts that don't scream 'surgery'. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Khanyi Mbau Metanoia (@mbaureloaded) Professor Chrysis Sofianos, one of South Africa's top plastic surgeons and among the few in the country offering this specialised procedure, describes to TRUELOVE the deep plane facelift as 'the gold standard in facial rejuvenation'. 'Unlike traditional facelifts that pull on the skin, this technique repositions the deeper structures beneath the SMAS (superficial musculoaponeurotic system) layer. This vertical lift restores natural volume to the cheeks, enhances jawline definition and rejuvenates the neck – without distorting facial expression or creating a 'tight' look.' View this post on Instagram A post shared by Kris Jenner (@krisjenner) The Kardashian/Jenner clan has been no stranger to cosmetic surgery conversations but it seems as though they're more open and honest about procedures they've done. People confirmed that Kris underwent cosmetic enhancement from New York City-based plastic surgeon Dr Steven Levine. The youngest of the family, Kylie Jenner, also gave some insight into her breast augmentation surgery, citing Beverley Hills plastic surgeon Dr Garth Fisher as the magician behind her and many of her family's procedures. This came as a pleasant surprise from the former secretive approach Kylie took to keep her aesthetic enhancements under wraps. not kylie jenner sharing her breast implant details in tiktok comment 😭 — 2000s (@PopCulture2000s) June 3, 2025 'Surgery is an art form and any surgery can look real or look false. There are many traditional facelifts and blepharoplasties patients who will look natural or like they have not had any plastic surgery done. What is different is that they are done by talented plastic surgeons,' says Johannesburg-based aesthetic doctor Dr Reza Mia. Curious about what exactly goes in to getting this groundbreaking facial procedure? The experts have got you covered. Specifics of the deep plane facelift From pricing in South Africa to recovery time, Professor Chrysis shares some insight into the specifics of the deep plane facelift. 'In South Africa, a deep plane face and neck lift typically costs between R150 000 and R200 000, depending on surgical complexity and hospital setting. When combined with procedures like eyelid surgery, lip lifts or skin resurfacing, a full facial rejuvenation package can cost up to R275 000. 'Recovery is usually smoother than with older techniques. Initial swelling and bruising resolve within 10 to 14 days, with most patients returning to daily activities in two to three weeks. Full recovery takes a few months, with final results revealing a refreshed and natural appearance,' Professor Chrysis explains. He also highlights that in the recovery phase after surgery, doctors will put together tailored recovery plans for each patient and do non-surgical treatments like Botox, laser resurfacing and derma fillers to maintain results and enhance the look. Rising cosmetic surgery trends in South Africa Many local stars have been vocal about their cosmetic procedures, whether the decision was based on a medical need or purely for confidence. From Boity Thulo's breast reduction and Lalla Hiryama's implant removal to Sithelo Shozi and Gogo Skhotheni's Brazilian butt lifts (BBLs), local surgeons are seeing a definite rise in natural. subtle body and face rejuvenation procedures. As a growing number of South Africans view cosmetic procedures as an investment in confidence and wellbeing, some medical institutions are now offering structured payment plans to make surgery more accessible. Professor Chrysis Sofianos Professor Chrysis reveals that he is seeing these trends in women in their 30s and 50s hoping to keep a youthful and refreshed appearance without looking overdone. 'The deep plane facelift, fat grafting and regenerative treatments like Morpheus8 and PRP (platelet-rich plasma) therapy are all in high demand among this group. These procedures offer refined, long-lasting results and can be tailored to the individual's anatomy and stage of ageing.' He continues, 'At the same time, we've seen a steady increase in male patients, particularly professionals in their 40s and 50s, seeking subtle enhancements to reduce signs of stress and fatigue while maintaining a masculine appearance.' Dr Reza echoes Professor Chrysis' findings and explains why PRP therapy is becoming so popular in Mzansi. 'The most exciting innovation we've seen in recent times is the platelets-rich evolution of platelets. It gives us an ability to give patience the universally attractive traits of healthy skin and a full head of hair at the same time we're able to make filler out of the actual blood. 'The patients don't need to rely on artificial hyaluronic acid fillers and its unfortunate side effects and we're able to then make great results, which are also stimulating the skin. It also it gives us something that could never be done before. We are able to inject into the breasts to make them bigger and more voluptuous all with the patient's own blood.'
IOL News
22-05-2025
- Health
- IOL News
Why the deep plane facelift is the new gold standard
Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a leading Gauteng-based plastic surgeon and an expert in deep plane facelifts Image: supplied Plastic surgery in South Africa is having a major moment. Gone are the days when going under the knife was a whispered secret. These days, talking openly about cosmetic procedures is not only accepted but also encouraged. From the glitzy streets of Sandton to Instagram feeds across Cape Town, more South Africans are embracing facial rejuvenation as an essential part of their lifestyle, not just a hush-hush fix. Let's face it: celebrity culture plays a huge role in shaping our beauty aspirations. Take Kris Jenner, for example. Her 'new face' has sparked endless speculation, with many experts pointing to the deep plane facelift as her secret weapon for looking refreshed yet natural. Closer to home, South Africa's own Khanyi Mbau is no stranger to the spotlight or to breaking the internet with her ever-evolving look. But it's not just for celebrities anymore. Every day, South Africans are seeking out cosmetic surgery to look and feel their best, with searches for 'facelift South Africa' and 'plastic surgery trends' at an all-time high, according to Google Trends data from 2023. One major driver is the global weight loss craze, especially the popularity of new medications originally designed for diabetes. While these drugs have helped many achieve their dream bodies, they've also led to the rise of the 'weight loss face', that hollowed, saggy look that can make people appear older than they feel. Professor Chrysis Sofianos, a leading Gauteng-based plastic surgeon and an expert in deep plane facelifts, explains that, 'One of the most common complaints I hear from patients is, 'I finally have the body I wanted, but my face looks 10 years older.'' According to the Gauteng plastic surgeon guru, he's seen a surge in consultations from people who have lost weight rapidly, only to find that their faces have lost volume and firmness. The deep plane facelift So, what's the secret to reversing the 'weight loss face' and other signs of ageing? According to Sofianos, it's all about going deeper literally. The deep plane facelift isn't just another beauty trend; it's being called the gold standard for natural, long-lasting results. Unlike traditional facelifts, which tighten only the skin, the deep plane facelift repositions the deeper layers of facial tissue. This technique gives a lift where it matters most, restoring youthful contours without the 'pulled' or 'wind tunnel' look so many people fear. 'This is just one instance where the deep plane facelift truly shines,' says Professor Sofianos. It restores natural facial harmony by lifting and repositioning deep tissues, not just tightening the skin. "The results are subtle and timeless, people will notice you look fantastic, not that you've had work done.' Plastic surgeons like Professor Sofianos are at the forefront of this cultural shift, offering advanced techniques that respect both science and artistry. Image: Supplied
