Self-Esteem, Body Image, Confidence

Cosmetic surgery is often labelled as being superficial. However, if you look into the real and right reasons why people go through cosmetic surgery, you will realise it is so much more than superficial.

There is a reason why the cosmetic surgery industry exists – unfortunately only 1 in 5 are actually happy with their body and appearance. Contrary to our wishes, this is the sad reality, and can lead to lack of self-confidence and self-esteem, which in turn can cause greater problems in other aspects of their lives.

One of the biggest reasons women and men undergo cosmetic surgery is to improve their confidence and self-esteem. Body image is how an individual perceives their body, not a reflection of someone else’s perception. Cosmetic surgeons must have a serious understanding of an individual’s body-image, to make sure the client is not unrealistically hoping for cosmetic surgery to solve issues in other areas of their life.

It is also important for the Surgeon to manage realistic expectations, especially when patients are bringing in ideas and pictures of desired results. Knowing what you want is important, however may not always be suitable for your face or body. It is important for surgeons to recognise this and make recommendations to the client according to their individual needs and results.

 

MTM work closely with a psychologist who meets you in Malaysia and is there to assist you throughout the entire process. They will discuss your reasons for undergoing surgery and make sure your expectations and reasons are able to be met.

 

Contact MTM for a FREE consultation!

 

 

Cosmetic Surgeons VS Plastic Surgeons…are they the same?

Cosmetic Surgeons VS Plastic Surgeons…are they the same?

This is a very commonly asked question, and a lot of the time people are unable to tell the difference between a cosmetic surgeon and plastic surgeon, and don’t see the importance it plays.

There is a significant difference between the two, the most distinct one being the level of education.

Plastic surgeons are required to complete 12 years of training as a minimum, whereas a Cosmetic surgeon receives the very basic medical training and can come from any medical background, not specialising in reconstructive and plastic surgery.

In cosmetic surgery, patients are required to pay their surgeon directly for procedures, which means there is the possibility of being unaccredited and unregistered, and not really any way of knowing. Research is extremely important when choosing a surgeon for cosmetic procedures. Have as many consultations as you wish before making your decision, and know it’s never too late to opt out of a surgery, even on the day of surgery, if you don’t feel comfortable.

There is also a difference in price between plastic and cosmetic surgeons. Plastic surgeons will generally be more expensive for the following reasons:

§  Surgery is performed in a fully accredited hospital, not an office or clinic

§  They are highly qualified and specialise in particular fields

The surgeons we work with are highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeons, with decades of experience in their field.

Contact MTM on 1300 882 672 for a consultation!

Downplaying Plastic Surgery Overseas

It is very alarming that in 2015, there are a large number of people, especially younger women, who still don’t understand the seriousness of surgery. Cosmetic surgery is generally a surgical procedure, which requires preparation, care and following strict instructions post-surgery for the best recovery and results.

It is highly doubtful that you would be lying on Bondi beach after a Tummy Tuck or Rhinoplasty, yet many people find it acceptable to buy into ‘cocktails on a beach’ in another country after a serious procedure.

It is very important to remember that cosmetic surgery is still SURGERY, which means there is a recovery process and time which is essential to your health and results. It is also very important to realise and recognise that a company who is facilitating your surgery overseas has the duty of care to ensure you are well aware of the recovery process and emphasise the importance of this.

The idea of travelling overseas, waking up with a new body/face, lying in the sun on a beautiful beach, sipping cocktails and shopping till you drop sure does sound enticing, but how many people would do that in Australia? Would you go shopping after being under the knife? Most probably NO!

It is important to research, educate yourself, and make sure your medical travel provider is on the same page as you. Surgery, no matter how major or minor, or which country it is in, is surgery at the end of the day. There is a recovery process and it is essential to rest and make sure you follow instructions to avoid any complications and get the best results.

Discuss your individual needs with MTM, we are here to help!

The Grand Malaysia Sales SHOPPING TOUR is HERE!

 

Rising Stars Travel in conjunction with MTM are bringing you the Sale Trip of the year!

 

Kuala Lumpur is the 3rd Best Shopping Destination in the WORLD...

and every July they have the best sales! We have put together a Shopping Tour

to take advantage of these sales.

 

The tour is 4 days of FUN! [16th July to 20th July 2015].

 

 

A balance of all the best brands and bargains, the trip will include some of the biggest shopping centres in the World including ‘Pavilion’, “Berjaya Times Square’ and ‘Mid Valley Megamall’.

 

 

 

 

 

We have even organised a City Tour to take in the beautiful sights Kuala Lumpur has to offer, including the iconic Petronas Twin Towers, The King’s Palace and The National Museum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Stay at the astounding Berjaya Hotel Times Square, and enjoy 4 days of shopping, relaxation, sight-seeing, food, culture and more shopping!

Get your girlfriends together, or perhaps take your Mum for a Mother’s Day treat, this trip is for everyone!

Email ravneet@medicaltravemanagement.com to receive a complete Information Pack!

 

We can't wait to SHOP!

Choosing a surgeon??

Here's a quick guide to help you!

It is really the most crucial decision to your surgery - call MTM on 1300 882 672 and let us help you!

Malaysia has done it again!

 

The International Medical Travel Journal (IMTJ) Medical Travel Awards for 2015 were held last week, and we are ecstatic to announce Malaysia won 6 of the 13 awards for their impeccable quality of hospitals, experienced surgeons and care.

 

Some of the awards won include:

• Medical Travel Destination of the Year
• Best Quality Initiative of the Year - Imperial Dental Specialist Centre
• International Cosmetic Surgery Clinic of the Year - Beverly Wilshire Medical Centre
• International Dental Clinic of the Year - Imperial Dental Specialist Centre
• Highly commended for Customer Service - Prince Court Medical Centre
• Highly commended for Travel Website - Imperial Dental Specialist Centre

 

“Malaysia has the ecosystem and infrastructure for end-to-end healthcare services,” says Sherene Azli, CEO of the Malaysia Healthcare Travel Council, a body set up in 2009 under the Health Ministry to develop and promote the country’s healthcare travel industry. 

 

The judges found what they were looking for in the Medical Travel Destination of the Year - Malaysia has all-round excellence, verified statistics of yearly growth for medial tourists, high levels of patient satisfaction and co-ordinated activities that delivered an increase in medical tourism.

MTM are so proud of bringing you the very best in quality healthcare and medical tourism. We look forward to helping you find what you are looking for and helping you achieve your goals and change your life!

 

Contact MTM on 1300 882 672 to organise your FREE consultation, and check out our Facebook Page for upcoming events and information.

 

MTM Team

 

Source: http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2015/04/17/Msia-best-for-medical-travel-IMTJ-award-boosts-nations-position-as-worldclass-healthcare-destination/ 

Finding it hard to lose weight?

 

Almost all of us have had fluctuations in our weight due to what we eat, our exercise levels, injuries, medical conditions, seasons, and many other reasons. There are also thousands of “Fad Diets” that promise to make you lose “5kgs in 1 week” and “magic pills” that “shred the weight off in days or hours”. Unfortunately, although sometimes these MIGHT work for a few days or weeks, most of the time the weight comes right back, with a bit extra…not to mention the long term damage some of these ‘diets’ cause to your metabolism and body.

 

There is nothing that works better than creating a lifestyle that allows you to maintain a healthy weight that you’re happy with internally and externally. It takes weeks and months to put on that 5, 10, 15 kgs, so it’s no surprise that it will most probably take time to lose the weight. A healthy weight loss is between 0.5 to 1 kg per week.

 

Here are some tips to help you shift your mindset and lose weight in a sustainable and healthy manner without starving yourself, giving in to “diets” and spending hundreds of dollars on shakes and meal replacements.

Eat a well-balanced diet

 A well-balanced diet involves protein, healthy fats, carbohydrates and the occasional treat. It is important to remember that the goal is to maintain a sustainable healthy lifestyle – so no need to cut out entire food groups and starve yourself. Eat a balanced diet of 3 meals and a few snacks throughout the day.

Exercise

 

Even 30 minutes a day can help you maintain and lose weight. Weight training is an excellent way to lose weight and “tone” your body. The more muscle your body holds, the more fat you’re burning while resting. Cardio like running, walking and interval training are a great way to increase your heart rate and burn fat. It is also important to mix up your training every few weeks to keep your body guessing and not plateau your weight-loss efforts.

 

Eating Enough

Many people see weight-loss to be as simple as “eat less”. It is also important to note WHAT you are eating, how much you’re eating, and make sure you’re eating enough. Your body needs food to keep your metabolism running, and not eating enough puts you into a deficit, which means your metabolism will slow down to use the limited food it has, storing it as fat in most cases.

Sleep and Recovery

 

Allowing your body to rest and recover plays a big role in weight loss, not just physically but also mentally. It provides us with balance, rest and helps muscles recover after exercise.

Stress

Stress is a contributor in weight-gain and can lead to forming unhealthy habits. Everyone has their own way of unwinding and relaxing, so find what works for you! Meditation, yoga, long baths, a good book are some suggestions!

 

Winter is one of the best times to get active and in shape for summer! Start with 20-30 minutes a day and build up the intensity. It is also important to incorporate what you love into your lifestyle – go for a walk, a hike, a bike ride with the family, yoga, the gym, and even some fun classes. The key is to stay active and maintain a lifestyle you enjoy!

 

 

Does cosmetic surgery change who you are?

The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a very serious one. It is very important to recognise why you are having surgery, and what you expect the surgery to do for you. Although on the surface the decision to have cosmetic surgery is a physical change, the biggest changes experienced are mental and emotional.

Give yourself an assessment as to why you want cosmetic surgery. It is important you recognise why you are making this decision, and are prepared for the journey of change ahead. Cosmetic surgery does create changes to your self-esteem as well as physical changes. It is important to realise that seeking cosmetic change for someone else’s perception of you is not always ideal, and generally leads to disappointment.

General research suggests that when you have major changes made as a result of cosmetic surgery, there are changes in the way you act and your personality. One thing that will definitely change is your self-esteem and boost in self-confidence. It would be accurate to say that when you improve, change or enhance a part of your body that you have been self-conscious about, you feel better about yourself and in turn do more to maintain that confidence and change, hence improving the quality of your life in some instances.

It is important to remember however, that each individual responds to surgery differently, and although many people undergo cosmetic surgery to improve their self-esteem, this isn’t always the case. Therefore, it is important to recognise all the reasons you are making the change for, and be prepared for the outcomes.

Cosmetic surgery is about physical improvement, not perfection. It won’t change your life or solve personal problems. The bottom line is, that despite the fact that cosmetic surgery can offer many positive rewards, it will not take away problems or change relationships. You are ultimately the same person before and after, mostly with a positive self-esteem and more confidence after! MTM have a psychologist who will be with you throughout your journey to help you mentally and emotionally.

 

Contact MTM on 1300 882 672 to schedule a consultation, and ask us any questions you may have!

 

www.medicaltravelmanagement.com

www.facebook.com/MedicalTravelManagement

 

 

Business in Heels EXCLUSIVE Information Evening!

 

You're Invited...

 

MTM (Medical Travel Management) are holding an Information Evening EXCLUSIVE to Business in Heels Members!

 

MTM are very pleased to have met and collaborate with Evelyne Wilton from Business in Heels in the Hills District. We had such a great time at last Tuesday's Mixer Evening, and are truly inspired by Kathy Wong and her work with Moeloco.

 

Here are the details for the evening.

 

Please contact Ravneet on 0425 379 176 or ravneet@medicaltravelmanagement.com 

to secure a spot at your preferred date!

 

 

Gastric Sleeve vs Gastric Banding and Bypass: which is the best long term weight loss solution?

 

Most of you would have heard of Gastric Banding or Gastric Bypass, however Gastric Sleeve surgery is becoming increasingly more popular – providing the best permanent weight loss solution with minimum risks.

The Gastric banding procedure involves an adjustable band to tie up the stomach and limit the intake of food. The weight loss achieved has been up to 54% with the banding procedure. However, the band is required to be adjusted every few months and has posed risks in the past of the band coming loose or moving, causing complications.

 

The Gastric bypass surgery, also known as Intra-Gastric balloon, is a procedure where a silicone balloon filled with a sterile saline solution is inserted, creating a feeling of fullness, and removed after 6 months. This can sometimes result in the weight coming back on after the balloon is removed.

 

Sleeve Gastrectomy, also known as the Gastric Sleeve is the most permanent weight loss solution, for people with a BMI of around 40. This involves a procedure where 2/3 of the patient’s stomach is removed surgically, leaving a small tubular-shaped section, which functions just as well. Now that the stomach is smaller, it fills quickly with less food and you’re left fuller for longer.

 

The main benefits of gastric sleeve surgery as a pose banding and bypass include:

-          Simpler procedure which doesn’t require any damage to the intestines as bypass requires

-          No implants or foreign objects in your body

-          No adjustments, as is the case with bands

-          Lesser complications such as leaking, infection and movement of the band

-          No changes to the natural process of the stomach, which happens with gastric bypass, where food and nutrient absorption is interrupted. This also avoids the need of ongoing nutrient and vitamin supplementation.

 

Unlike gastric banding and bypass, the gastric sleeve procedure is not reversible.

It is very important to realise that although this sounds great, it is not a magical solution. There must be a strong commitment to a restricted diet and exercise. Also, it is important to note that such drastic weight-loss generally results in excess skin and sagging that may require further surgical consideration.

The bright side of this is, if you commit to a healthy lifestyle and follow the post-surgery guidelines, you will restore your health, change your body, have a better quality of life and eliminate many medical and mental issues associated with your past.

MTM have liaised with Fitness Centres and Gyms around Australia who will work with you to formulate a pre and post-surgery preparation and maintenance plan, allowing you to get the best results and take control of your body and life!

Speak to our consultants on 1300 882 672 for more Information!

 

It's a small price to pay...

 

 

“I want excellent service and results, and want to pay the most”…that’s something we won’t hear. You really want excellent service and results, and pay less, or a reasonable amount at least. When it comes to surgery however, cosmetic or non-elective, price should not be the underlying factor. While it’s great to have something at the lowest price, would you put your body and well-being in the hands of just anyone?

 

Price should not be the deciding factor for cosmetic surgery or any surgery for that matter, as procedures can vary depending on many factors. A typical quote for cosmetic surgery includes many factors like amount of work involved, medications, anaesthesia, lab tests, surgical garments, facility fees, nurse fees and much more. So how can you obtain quality surgery at reasonable prices, and know exactly what you’re getting?

 

With the increase in number of Australians going overseas for surgery, most people assume price is the main motivation. While price is definitely a very lucrative attraction to seeking surgery in other countries, it is still important to make sure you’re not forgoing quality for the lowest price.

 

Our first tip is research! Do your research. Know what the average prices are for the specific procedure/s you are having done. While a bargain or discount, deal of the month, free offer, might sound appealing, it is usually because there is an offset in quality. With all the factors going into a procedure, you can do the math and realise there are factors that would have to be lagging in order to provide that lower price or deal.

 

When choosing a surgeon and hospital, look at success rates for the specific surgery you are looking to have done. Look at the medical system of the country, the quality of facilities, the government support the hospitals receive, and the way the surgeon and hospital deal with past patients.

 

There are risks with any medical procedure anywhere in the world, but looking at this analogy and going where the price is the lowest is not the best course of action – you may end up paying more!

 

Contact MTM for a FREE Consultation and we can put you in touch with our surgeons and hospital staff. We can also organise Finance options to start your journey.

 

There is no price too large to put on your health and wellbeing!

 

Knee Reconstruction - Get back to your active lifestyle quicker!

Suffering from Knee Osteoarthritis?

Don’t want to wait years on a waiting list to have a replacement or treatment?

We have a solution for you…

You can have your treatment overseas with no waiting time, and at a much more affordable cost!

 

Our knees are very fragile, and are constantly strained through walking, running and physical activity over time. In most cases, a knee injury is caused as a result of an active lifestyle, which is not only physically degenerating, but also emotionally straining on the individual. The damaged cartilage around the knee deteriorates and causes painful osteoarthritis, making it very difficult to carry out a normal life.

Some symptoms of knee arthritis can be maintained and improved through exercise or medication, however this is not always a permanent solution. One solution is a Knee Replacement.

A knee reconstruction involves an operation in which the damaged/diseased joint of the knee are removed and replaced with a prosthesis (artificial) joint.

If you’re familiar with hospitals in Australia, many patients who need procedures such as a knee replacement find themselves on a waiting list for years! Now this can be extremely debilitating to live a normal life with constant pain, and sometimes inability to walk.

Luckily, you have the option to get your life back to normal quicker and at a more affordable price – have a knee reconstruction surgery overseas!

By having MTM organise your surgery overseas, you have access to the world’s number one multi-disciplinary medical centre for medical tourists, which specialises in Orthopaedics – Prince Court Medical Centre, and access to the most experienced surgeons in the world. They are one of the very few hospitals in the world which specialise in multiple ligament injury for knee, ankle and shoulder reconstructions.

In the past, this procedure involved cutting into the whole joint, which could sometimes cause damage to the healthy joint and surrounding tissue. The advanced technology at Prince Court allows for a knee reconstruction to be carried out through Arthroscopy (Keyhole surgery), and is monitored via camera.

Having your surgery through MTM means you avoid the waiting time. The savings in cost are equally appealing, where a Knee Reconstruction in Australia typically costs around $25,000 AUD, in Malaysia the procedure is between $8,000 and $15,000 AUD, which allows you to save up to 67%.

Patients are finding that having knee replacement overseas allows them to get back to their normal active lives much faster, and MTM have a rehabilitation program in Australia to help you recover and get active sooner.

If you need a Knee Reconstruction, and want to save time spent on waiting lists, and money – call MTM on 1300 882 672 and speak to our consultants!

What is Medical Travel? Why Malaysia?

As silly as it sounds, a lot of people wonder exactly what Medical Travel entails, and why people partake in Medical Travel.

 

Is it people going overseas to have a breast augmentation? Facelift? Tummy Tuck?

 

Is it because it's cheaper?

 

Are the facilities up to the standards of those in our country?

 

The answer to all of these questions is - YES!

 

Medical Travel simply put, is the process of people travelling overseas for medical treatment. The latest industry trends show Medical Travel being a multi-billion dollar industry, estimated at around $100 Billion, with a growth rate of over 20% per year! There are over 25,000 Australians travelling overseas now to seek medical treatment. This is mainly for cosmetic treatment, however, there are increasingly more people seeking other treatments like dental, optical, cancer treatment, IVF and fertility treatment, bariatric and many more.

 

There are many countries people go to including Malaysia, Thailand, Korea, India, Singapore and the United States to name a few. MTM works exclusively with Malaysia.

 

Why Malaysia?

 

Malaysia is one of the very few countries whose Government regulates Medical Travel. The Malaysian Health Travel Council (MHTC) is the governing body which ensures accreditation, regulation and standardisation of hospitals and surgeons, promotion of medical travel and facilitation.

 

The Malaysian Health Council have a very stringent process in selecting Hospitals and Surgeons. Of the 268 hospitals in Malaysia, only 77 are chosen by the Government, and we have built strong relationships with some of these hospitals. The facilities are second to none, and the staff and nurses don't treat you like another number. The hospitality culture of Malaysia is evident in the way the staff look after you.

 

All the doctors and surgeons are educated at some of the most prestigious universities around the world in Edinburgh, London, Melbourne University, NSW, USA and Korea, and have over 12-15 years of experience specialising in their field.

 

The COST is a major factor for many people going overseas, and the favourable exchange rate with Malaysian RM, the capped fees on all surgery, and the fact that you pay the same as a Malaysian local is very lucrative to people seeking treatment overseas. You can expect to save up to 80% on some treatments!

 

Specialised treatment is another reason many people travel overseas, in particular to Malaysia. Procedures not available here in Australia are available in countries like Malaysia, with phenomenal success rates. For example, IVF treatment at the Hope Centre in Malaysia has a 60.7% clinical pregnancy rate through IVF. This is one of the best in the WORLD!

Those are just a few of the many reasons we choose to work with Malaysia as our partner in Medical Travel, and give clients the best care, experience and results!

 

Call us to schedule your consultation, ask us any questions or to just get some more information  1300 882 672 and check out our website www.medicaltravelmanagement.com 

 

See you soon!

MTM

Healthy Skin Tips!

Healthy skin on the outside starts from the inside - what you put in is what you see on the outside.

Here are a few quick tips on how to keep your skin looking and feeling healthy!

SMILE :)

SMILE J

Everyone deserves to smile…Everyone should smile…and if there’s anything stopping us from smiling – it’s time to take control.

 

The biggest part of MTM is allowing you to experience the change you desire by allowing you to be in the hands of the very best to accommodate the change, and make it affordable. Living in Australia, and having teeth, I’m sure we all know how much a visit to the dentist costs just for a clean…

 

…now factor in things like a filling…

 

…braces….

 

…God forbid a crown or implants…

 

…or serious reconstructions…

 

And although we are very lucky to be able to have health insurance and benefits at times, it is still extremely pricey to have anything done.

 

Our teeth are such an integral part of our SMILE!

 

Don’t let your teeth stop you from smiling!

 

Imperial Dental Specialist Clinic is one of the Dental Clinics we have chosen to affiliate with, and with great reason. Their mission is very similar to ours…

 

SMILE…

 

They are committed to promoting and educating patients on oral healthcare, and providing patients with the very best in technology, expertise, service and treatment.

 

Imperial Dental was named the BEST Dental Clinic for International Patients in 2014! So you know you’re in the right hands, working with well renowned surgeons like Dr. How, who has been trained at the Royal College of Edinburgh, and is a board director for the Ministry of Health in Malaysia.

 

 

You can stop by before or after another procedure and save up to 80% on Teeth Whitening procedures, or you can choose to have more complex procedures like Implants, Crowns, Maxillofacial surgery and much more…at a much more affordable price!

 

To top it off, have a look at the Clinic! These are NOT just pretty pictures...this is the view YOU have!

 

 

 

Contact us to Schedule your Consultation, and take the first step to the SMILE you've always wanted!

 

 

MTM :)

Want to know more?

 

MTM are holding a FREE Information Evening!

 

We would love to have you here...

 

It's a great opportunity to meet past patients, doctors, and learn more about how MTM can help you!

 

Be sure to RSVP and don't worry if you miss out, we hold our Information Sessions every few weeks :)

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

 

HAPPY NEW YEAR! Wishing you and your families a very happy and prosperous New Year!

 

We hope you all had an amazing start to 2015 with Family and Friends. MTM is back to work today and we have a very exciting year planned ahead, from regular Showcases and Information Evenings around Australia, to exciting new developments in the industry; and we are looking forward to sharing it all with you and helping you!

 

We provide FREE CONSULTATIONS if you are interested in knowing more about MTM or a particular procedure/s. We can help you with solutions and advice on anything from Dental, Optical and Cosmetic to more complex procedures like Heart Surgery, Orthopaedics and even IVF and Fertility Treatment.

 

Feel free to contact us www.medicaltravelmanagement.com and stay tuned for articles, updates and events!

 

MTM Team