Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery in Hong Kong

MyMediTravel has teamed up with Doctors, Surgeons, and Clinics to offer you a fabulous selection of Plastic and Cosmetic surgery procedures. Many of our customers shared the same opinion that Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery were actually the same. So what is the difference? While both plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery aim to improve a patient’s body, there are differences:

Plastic Surgery is reconstructive surgery aimed at reconstructing the burnt, cut, or damaged part of the body. Functional abnormalities due to accidents, burns, injuries, cancers, fractures, tumors, medical impairments, congenital defects including cleft palate, cleft lip, spina bifida, etc., fractured body parts are also treated under plastic surgery. The most common reconstructive procedure is the redevelopment of removed breasts in cancer patients, hand surgery, and the removal of tumors.

Cosmetic surgery or aesthetic surgery is involved in enhancing your physical beauty. It is not for the treatment of any disease or ailment. Your physical appearance is changed according to your desire by performing surgery. Facial features are altered by reshaping of the nose, chin implants, lip implants, brow lifting, eyelid lifting, and face lifting. Butt implants, breast implants, breast lift. and neck contouring is also prevalent. The likes of liposuction and Tummy Tucks also fall under this category.

Plastic Surgery Treatments

The procedures vary according to the purpose for which surgery is being performed. The following are some of the procedures used in plastic surgery:

• Skin Grafting involves taking a healthy piece of skin from a Donor Site and implanting onto a damaged Recipient Site. 
• Flap Surgery, in this type of plastic surgery a piece of flesh is transferred from one body part to the other. This piece of tissue carries its own blood supply and heals faster. It is used to treat the more complicated type of disorders.
• Tissue Expansion, as the name indicates, the body grows extra tissue by the extension of the surrounding skin. A device called an expander is used in this method. It is a balloon-like machine that is inserted under the skin near the defected area which needs to be repaired. This is filled with saltwater allowing the skin to expand and grow.
• Microsurgery, in this technique, very small sutures are used to connect arteries, veins, and nerves in the transplanted tissue. It makes the healing process rapid.   

Length of Stay in Hong Kong

This also depends upon the type of surgery being performed. Complex surgeries require a long stay in the hospital. For example, if someone is going through reconstructive surgery for burns, the duration of stay in the hospital depends upon the percentage of the burnt area. It is referred to as total body surface area burnt (TBSA%). In cases of severe burns, the stay is longer. For breast tumor removal two methods are used. In a lumpectomy, only the tumor along with some surrounding tissue is removed and the patient is discharged the same day. While in the case of mastectomy, the whole breast tissue is removed leaving the chest flat. It requires an overnight stay at the hospital. 2 days are needed if the breasts are reconstructed after the removal of the tumor. Similarly, different cosmetic surgeries require a different stay at hospital time. Butt lift surgery demands variable time which depends on your pain tolerance and healing speed. But in most cases, a minimum of 10-14 days post-op stay in Hong Kong is required for the removal of stitches and for follow up checks, etc.

Recovery Time

This too depends upon the type of surgery performed. It is advised to give yourself plenty of time for recovery. This will make you happy if you recover in less than the estimated time. In the case of a breast transplant, you can return to work after 5-7 days. In three months, the swelling subsides and the breasts get proper size and shape. Butt lift surgery demands four months for complete recovery. Liposuction has varying recovery times, depending on the area of the body from which fat is removed. Vaginal rejuvenation requires 3 to 6 weeks for recovery in which you need to abstain from sexual intercourse. Rhinoplasty shows an early setting within one month. However, complete results are seen after 1 year. Facelift and eyelid surgery requires 2 to 3 week recovery time.

Success Rate

Plastic surgeries are not always successful. Physical conditions of a patient are considered before undergoing surgery, and those with the least health risks are allowed to go through the operation. The success rate is higher if the subject is fit, both physically and mentally. Although the success rate is high, surgery can still go wrong. In the case of plastic surgery gone wrong, your body might become de-shaped, but surgeons are well equipped and well experienced enough to correct this as quickly as possible, which is why you must not fly home immediately after surgery.

Aftercare

Plastic surgery is a wide field, with many operations coming under this category, and aftercare for every surgery is different. Following are some tips for aftercare:

1. Visit your doctor on a regular basis and follow his/her guidelines.
2. Make sure that you have someone with you because recovery can take some time.
3. Ask your doctor about a healthy diet plan. Eat nutritious food according to that plan.
4. Take some days off work. Take rest and avoid un-necessary exercise and movement.
5. Drink a lot of water.
6. Do not take medicines on your own because some pain killers can increase inflammation.

Alternatives to Plastic Surgery

• Microdermabrasion: in this method, fine crystals are rapidly sprayed onto the skin removing superficial dead skin layer.
• Botox: Botulinum Toxin is injected into the skin which temporarily paralyzes your muscles causing skin lines and wrinkles.
• CoolSculpting: This technique works by freezing the adipocytes present under your skin. These are crystallized and ultimately killed. After that, your body will digest them leaving fat free skin.
• Ultherapy: This involves using ultrasound energy for skin tightening giving smooth and healthy skin.
• Facial Fillers: these are long term, short term, or permanent fillers. Which improves your skin quality without surgery.
• Bio Stimulators: these are the boosters of collagen production. Increased collagen gives tight and youthful skin.

In the case of reconstructive surgery, breast prostheses may be considered an alternative to breast implants. Prostheses are an artificial body part. Artificial breasts are worn inside a suitable bra giving the appearance of natural breasts. It is useful for those who do not want to go for reconstructive surgery.  

Before and After

The visible difference is seen before and after going through plastic surgery. In reconstructive surgeries, your body parts are reconstructed such as breasts. While in cosmetic surgery your physical appearance is altered.

Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery in and around Hong Kong

About Hong Kong

The former British colony became a special administrative region of China in 1997, when Britain's 99-year lease of the New Territories, north of Hong Kong Island, expired. Hong Kong is governed under the principle of "one country, two systems", under which China has agreed to give the region a high degree of autonomy and to preserve its economic and social systems for 50 years from the date of the handover.

Hong Kong welcomes an ever-increasing number of medical tourists each year, many of which travel for Plastic and Cosmetic Surgery procedures. Hong Kong is a well-established hub for medical tourism, although it is better known for its quality and cutting-edge procedures than for cost.

Popular Parts of Hong Kong

Hong Kong is a blend of a dynamic cultural landscape with an astonishing skyline, glamorous shopping, as well as one of the world’s top culinary destinations. 

• Victoria Peak (The Peak) offers the best view of Hong Kong’s modern skyline. It is the highest point on Hong Kong Island and the most visited spots by tourists. You can ride the tram to the top where you will find the Peak Tower and Peak Galleria. The peak is covered by a large park filled with incredible greenery.  
• Big Buddha (Tian Tan Buddha Statue) is located in Lantau Island. It is one of the largest Buddha statues and took 12 years to complete. It is the perfect place for tourists who wish to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city. Surrounded by forest and ocean, the statue gives an incredible view. The best way to reach the Buddha is by riding the Ngong Ping Cable car which will take you on a spectacular ride over the forest.
• Wong Tai Sin Temple is one of the most popular temples in Hong Kong. It was named after the famous monk of yore, Wong Tai Sin. It is said that he has the ability to punish evils, heal the wounded, rescue the dying, and grant whatever is requested. The temple is also known as Sik Sik Yuen and has a traditional Chinese temple style. 
• Temple Street Night Market is the best night market for tourists. Starting at 6.00 pm, it is the place to go if you want to taste Hong Kong’s street food. You can also find vendors selling gadgets, trinkets, clothing, household goods, jewelry, and traditional Chinese crafts. The place is brimming with atmosphere and it has served as the backdrop to many movies.
• Hong Kong Disneyland is a wonderful world for any Disney lovers. The park is divided into seven lands: Adventureland, Grizzly Gulch, Main Street, Mystic Point, Fantasy Land, Toy Story Land, and Tomorrowland. Here, you will find various adventures, parades, and musicals. In the evening, you can watch the fireworks over the castle.
• Star Ferry is a beloved icon of the city. It is said that your visit to Hong Kong will never be complete without cruising on the famous ferry. You can see the sparkling landscape of the city while enjoying the refreshing breeze.

Weather and Climate in Hong Kong

Hong Kong’s weather is influenced by the monsoon subtropical climate. The temperature is mostly mild all year round. May to September are the warmest months with an average temperature of 33 °C while mid-December to February are the coldest months with the temperature falling to 10 °C. Spring starts from March and ends in early May and the weather during this season is pleasant with many sunny days, but you can also have foggy, rainy, and stormy days. 

The summer in Hong Kong is hot and humid with a perpetual threat of rain showers, thunderstorms, and sometimes even typhoons. Summer lasts for around four months from May to September. With August as the wettest month in the city.

The best time to visit Hong Kong is in the autumn, starting from October to early December when the days are generally sunny and the temperatures range from 22 °C to 28 °C. Winter is the holiday season in the city and the average temperature is around 16 °C to 18 °C but it can drop under 10 °C.

Getting Around in Hong Kong

The main gateway to Hong Kong is the Hong Kong International Airport. The airport is built on reclaimed land on the island of Chek Lap Kok and it serves international destinations to almost every major city in the world, including, Dubai, Amsterdam, Seoul, Canada, Singapore, and Sydney. For affordable travel, budget airlines such as AirAsia, Eastar Jet, and IndiGo are available. There are a wide variety of public transport services to and from the airport. The best options are Airport Express, public buses, and taxis.

To get around Hong Kong, it is best to purchase Tourist Day Tickets which gives you unlimited access to the main MTR and certain Rail lines for HK$65. If you are planning to stay longer in the city, the Octopus Card will be a big help. The card is reusable and can be used for almost every public transportation mode and you can buy the card for HK$150.

One of the fastest and easiest ways to get around the city is by the MTR (Mass Transit Railways) and it is one of the most advanced metro systems on the planet. The MTR operates 11 lines from 06.00 am to 01.00 am. The fare ranges from HK$3.6 to HK$52.6 depending on the distance. 

The public bus is a great way to explore Hong Kong, especially the south side of the island and the New Territories. Most buses are double-decker and air-conditioned and it is an affordable way to get around the city and the fares will vary based on the distance traveled. Other public transportation modes such as tram and ferry are also available.

If you need a more flexible way of travel, taxis are easy to find and offer excellent value. There are three types of taxis, the red taxis operate throughout the city except for Lantau Island and the fares start at HK$24. The green taxis only operate in the New Territories and the fares start at HK$20.50. The blue taxis serve Lantau Island and the fares start at HK$19.

Tourist Visas in Hong Kong

Citizens of around 170 countries and territories may visit and stay in Hong Kong without a visa for up to 180 days. Other countries not listed in the visa-free entry such as Albania, Armenia, and Cambodia need to apply and obtain a visa before entering the country. All visitors must have a passport valid for at least one to six months beyond the date of entry to Hong Kong. Visitors can apply for a visa from their nearest Chinese embassy or consulate.

Additional Information

1. Local Currency: The official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar. US$1 converts to HK$7.78.
2. Money & Payments: Tourists can find ATMs almost everywhere, and most ATMs are linked up to international money systems such as Maestro, Cirrus, and Visa Electron. Credit cards are widely accepted. Tipping is generally not expected and restaurants usually add 10% to 15% service charge to your bill.
3. Local Language: Most people in Hong Kong speak Chinese (Cantonese and Mandarin). However, English is also widely spoken since it is one of the government official languages. 
4. Local Culture and Religion: Many people in Hong Kong either follow Buddhism, Confucianism, or Taoism. Christianity is also one of the major religions in the city. Other religions such as Islam, Sikhism, Hinduism, Judaism, and the Bahá'í Faith are also freely practiced.
5. Public Holidays: Hong Kong celebrates major religious holidays such as Lunar New Year, Ching Ming Festival, and Christmas.