Zydus Hospitals, Ahmedabad, Takes Post-Weight-Loss Transformation Beyond the Scale

AHMEDABAD, India, Oct. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — India is in the middle of a significant obesity crisis, and global estimates place the country third in the world for the number of adults living with obesity. Despite regular exercise, there are thousands of patients who struggle to lose weight, which has taken a lasting toll on their metabolic health. For many patients, bariatric surgery has been an emerging option. It is a life-changing procedure, but it has its own limitations and challenges, such as excess and sagging skin. To address these concerns, Zydus Hospital, Ahmedabad’s Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Department has been doing remarkable work.

As patients lose a significant amount of fat after bariatric surgery, excess skin is left behind. Though it may seem a purely cosmetic concern, for many patients it is a daily problem. Loose, overlapping skin can cause chronic rashes and recurring infections in the folds, and it can interfere with everyday movement and exercise, making it harder to stay active after weight loss. In such cases, cosmetic and reconstructive surgery (including post-bariatric body contouring) is an option that can protect a patient’s long-term health.

At Zydus Hospitals, Dr. Bijal Parikh, Plastic, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgeon, has over 30 years of distinguished experience in treating patients, helping them restore confidence and achieve natural-looking results. He practices as a cosmetic and plastic surgeon in Ahmedabad and is an experienced hand, known for astute surgical skills and deep understanding of facial and body aesthetics, contributing to the department for years. He recalls a case where a 43-year-old woman had undergone bariatric surgery four years ago and, more recently, a liposuction procedure. “She came to us with complaints of loose, excess skin on her abdomen and along her lateral chest and both arms. Though this is a known and common complication of major weight loss, it had begun to affect her self-esteem. On examination, we also noticed that her navel had stretched into what’s known as a ‘laughing umbilicus,’ a wide, horizontal slit that forms when skin around the belly button loses elasticity.”

Dr. Bijal performed a circumferential abdominoplasty, an extended tummy tuck in Ahmedabad that removes excess skin around the entire torso, combined with targeted contouring of her arms and chest. “It improves body contour, and the stitches are placed along the body’s natural creases where they’re easily concealed and considerably fade over the years, though they don’t disappear entirely,” he added.

“Most of the work in the OT goes into suturing,” said Dr. Parikh. “We use cosmetic, absorbable internal sutures, so there’s no need to remove them afterwards.” The patient recovered well and was advised to wear a pressure garment, a fitted compression shaper that supports healing tissue and reduces swelling, for six weeks after surgery. She was extremely happy with the results. With her confidence back, she can now dance to the tunes of garba and enjoy herself to the fullest, without much apprehension.

Feeling comfortable and confident in one’s own skin matters at every age. As one gets older, the skin gradually loses its firmness as the collagen and elastin (proteins that keep the skin firm) break down. This is most visible as sagging of the face and along the jawline. One 65-year-old patient consulted Dr. Parikh for a neck lift and lower facelift. A facelift tightens the skin and the layers beneath it, including the SMAS, which is the supporting layer of muscle and connective tissue under the skin, and the platysma (the thin muscle in the neck), all of which loosen with age. If done well, these procedures can restore definition along the jawline and neck without the overly tight, artificial look associated with traditional facelifts. The patient was content with the results as the surgery offered a firmer jawline and neck. Each surgery is supported by a team of anaesthesiologists, physiotherapists and OT staff, who work alongside the surgeon to ensure the best results during and post-surgery.

The benefits of cosmetic and plastic surgery extend beyond appearance. The psychological impact of excess skin, and of its removal, is also well documented. Studies report that body contouring after weight loss is associated with reduced anxiety and depressive symptoms and improved quality of life, particularly among patients satisfied with their results. Physiotherapists, anaesthesiologists and the entire OT staff help in making each surgery a success.

Zydus’ cosmetic and plastic team offers a full range of body contouring procedures, and Dr. Bijal’s area of expertise spans Radio Frequency Assisted Liposuction (RFAL) and Laser Liposuction, Body contouring procedures – tummy tuck, arm lift, double chin correction, thigh lifts and calf shaping, Facial cosmetic surgeries – face lift, neck lifts nose reshaping (rhinoplasty), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), ear deformity corrections, Breast surgeries – augmentation, reduction (gynecomastia in males) and reconstruction, post-pregnancy body restoration, Hair transplantation and laser treatments for scars, moles, and pigmentation. Each case is evaluated individually, with surgical planning around a patient’s specific anatomy, their weight-loss history, and what will genuinely protect their long-term health and well-being.

To know more, visit https://zydushospitals.com/

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Discover Deakin 2026 Begins in India – Deakin University’s flagship annual student engagement brings a sharper focus on confident future choices

NEW DELHI, Oct. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Deakin University’s flagship student engagement initiative, Discover Deakin, returns to India this October with a renewed focus on helping students and families make informed and confident decisions about their university journey, careers and future in Australia.

Held under the theme ‘Decide your uni with confidence at Discover Deakin,’ the 2026 edition brings together Deakin academics, current students, alumni and specialist support teams to give prospective students a comprehensive view of the Deakin experience, from choosing the right course and understanding career pathways to accommodation, employability, student support and life in Australia.

This year, Austrade has joined the program to give students and parents a broader perspective on Australia as a study destination and the opportunities available to international students. As Australia’s trade and investment promotion agency, Austrade supports Australia’s international education engagement. Study Melbourne, which supports international students with a lens on Melbourne as a study destination, will join the Bengaluru session, further enriching the conversation around studying and living in Australia.

Here is a look at the schedule for Discover Deakin 2026 sessions:

• 3 October (Sat) – Chandigarh | Hyatt Regency, Satluj
• 7 October (Wed) – New Delhi | Le Méridien, Inspire
• 10 October (Sat) – Bengaluru | Conrad, Junior Ballroom
• 10 October (Sat) – Kochi | Holiday Inn, Periyar
• 13 October (Tue) – Mumbai | Novotel Mumbai, Burgundy
• 15 October (Thu) – Hyderabad | Hyatt Palace, MP-1 & 2
• 17 October (Sat) – Chennai | Pullman, Vana

To register for a Discover Deakin Session in your city, please visit Discover Deakin 2026

Ravneet Pawha, Vice President (Global Engagement) and CEO (South Asia), Deakin University, said, “Choosing a university is an important decision for students and families. At Deakin, we want students to have the confidence that comes from asking the right questions, hearing directly from those who have experienced university life and understanding where their education can take them.”

“Discover Deakin 2026 brings that experience to life. With Austrade and Study Melbourne joining us this year, students and parents can gain a broader perspective on studying in Australia while connecting directly with our faculty, students, alumni and support teams. Our aim is simple. We want to help every student make an informed choice and take their next step with confidence.”

What can students and families expect

Discover Deakin is designed to bring the university closer to students, giving them and their families a clearer window into what lies ahead and the information they need to make informed decisions about international study. From understanding Australia as a study destination and experiencing life at Deakin to exploring courses, careers, employability and student support, students can hear directly from the people who can help them understand what their university journey could look like.

More than an opportunity to gather information, Discover Deakin is about helping students ask the right questions, explore what is possible and find the pathway that is right for them. Through conversations with current students, alumni, faculty and specialist teams, they can gain practical insights and personalised guidance on courses, careers, scholarships and life in Australia, leaving with greater clarity about their choices and confidence about taking their next step.

A key strength of Discover Deakin is the opportunity for prospective students and parents to hear directly from those who have experienced the Deakin journey.

Students at the Discover Deakin session in New Delhi yesterday looked forward to information and valuable conversations with the Deakin faculty to make better course choices. Samnik Ahlawat is currently pursuing humanities and aims to explore higher studies in either nursing or psychology. Present at the New Delhi session, he said, “I am at this session to learn more about my options and what will suit me best if I want to study abroad. A successful pathway to studying in Australia is what I am seeking.”

Samnik’s family attended the session along with him. They said, “Nowadays children decide what they want to do in future. We are just here to support them. I am here to find out details about safety, security, accommodation and opportunities. I look forward to speaking to a Deakin Student Services representative to clear my doubts.”

By bringing together academic expertise, first-hand student and alumni perspectives, personalised admissions guidance and a broader Australia-focused conversation, Discover Deakin 2026 aims to provide students and families with the information, connections and confidence to make informed choices about their future.

The initiative builds on Deakin University’s long-standing engagement with India and its commitment to supporting Indian students through every stage of their international education journey, from choosing the right course to building skills, networks and experiences for global careers.

About Deakin University

Established in 1974, Deakin University has grown to become one of Australia’s most progressive and globally connected institutions. Deakin is recognised for its balance of excellence in education and research with a clear focus on creating real-world outcomes that benefit communities locally and globally.

Deakin has maintained a strong relationship with India since 1994, with its engagement spanning students, alumni, academic partnerships, research, industry and broader Australia–India connections.

With four campuses across Australia, Deakin offers over 300 industry-relevant courses, designed to equip students with the skills and experiences they need for future success.

To know more, please visit www.deakin.edu.au.

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NCCN Highlights Collaborations to Improve Global Cancer Outcomes During Meetings in North America and Asia

National Comprehensive Cancer Network participates in annual conferences for the International Gynecologic Cancer Society and Philippine Society of Medical Oncology in efforts to standardize cancer treatment recommendations.

MONTREAL and MANILA, Philippines, Oct. 8, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®)—an alliance of leading academic cancer centers in the United States—is collaborating with several global organizations to publish new International Adaptations of the NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines^®) for the Philippines. These projects were outlined during NCCN’s participation in two global conferences for cancer treatment: the International Gynecologic Cancer Society (IGCS) annual global meeting in Montreal October 1-3, and the Philippine Society of Medical Oncology (PSMO), Department of Health (DOH), and NCCN Summit taking place during the PSMO annual scientific meeting in Manila October 6-9.

“Our joint efforts in the Philippines and beyond reflect a shared commitment to improving access to appropriate cancer care, reducing disparities in treatment, and strengthening oncology practice through proven guidance,” said Crystal S. Denlinger, MD, Chief Executive Officer, NCCN. “By working with regional experts to regionally tailor NCCN’s guidelines for use in the Philippines, we combine our expertise to provide evidence-based recommendations that are more meaningful and usable for regional clinical settings. Through this global collaboration, we will create opportunities to grow our efforts with providers worldwide to develop practical tools that serve communities across the globe.”

The new NCCN Guidelines for the Philippines reflect close collaborations between NCCN and PSMO, as well as with the Society of Gynecological Oncologists of the Philippines (SGOP), with support from IGCS. The planned adaptations will cover the following disease types:

• B-Cell Lymphomas
• Breast Cancer
• Colon Cancer
• Hepatocellular Carcinoma
• Lung Cancer
• Prostate Cancer
• Rectal Cancer
  
  (with PSMO)
• Cervical Cancer
• Ovarian Cancer
• Uterine Cancer
  
  (with SGOP and IGCS)

All of the NCCN Guidelines for the Philippines will be available for free at NCCN.org/global in the months ahead.

On October 6th, PSMO, DOH, and NCCN hosted a high-level meeting to focus on the adaptation process and critical strategies to integrate these localized guidelines into national health policies and programs under the National Integrated Cancer Control Act (NICCA). Highlighting global implementation models, NCCN was joined by Professor Jacek Jassem of the Medical University of Gdańsk, who shared insights from Poland’s successful experience in developing and implementing the NCCN Guidelines for Poland.

“NCCN Guidelines are the most reliable tools that cancer care providers use worldwide to improve prevention, treatment, and outcomes for people with cancer. Developing regionally tailored guidelines alongside NCCN and international experts allows us to seamlessly combine global clinical standards with our local expertise and regulatory environment,” said Hiyasmin A. Alejandro MD, PSMO Vice President and Co-Lead of the NCCN adaptation project in the Philippines. “This collaboration directly strengthens our medical oncology practice, empowering Filipino healthcare providers to deliver more consistent, high-quality, and equitable care customized to the realities and regulations here in the Philippines.”

“True collaboration means co-creating solutions that meet the specific needs of our patients,” said Dr. Doris Benavides, SGOP’s immediate past president. “By adapting the NCCN Guidelines for cervical, uterine, and ovarian cancers to the Philippine setting, we’re giving our gynecologic oncologists evidence-based recommendations grounded in the realities of local practice in various regions of the country. This important initiative will raise the standard of care and improve long-term health outcomes for Filipino women and their families. We are grateful to NCCN and IGCS for their commitment to global collaboration. This partnership lets Filipino specialists to contribute local insight while benefiting from one of the world’s most trusted oncology guideline frameworks.”

Building on the success of the initiative in the Philippines for gynecologic cancers, NCCN recently signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with IGCS to explore the implementation of tailored gynecologic cancers guidelines in other regions as well. “IGCS is committed to improving gynecologic cancer care worldwide through education, training, and awareness,” said Mary Eiken, MS, CEO of IGCS. “Our Strategic Alliance Partner Program brings together leaders and members of gynecologic oncology organizations across specialties and regions around the world. We’re excited to collaborate with NCCN to help translate NCCN Guidelines into practice for gynecologic cancer patients.”

There are currently more than 90 international adaptations of the NCCN Guidelines and more than 180 different translations across numerous languages. Learn more about NCCN’s global efforts to expand access to high-quality, high-value, patient-centered cancer care for everyone, by visiting NCCN.org/global. 

About the National Comprehensive Cancer Network

The National Comprehensive Cancer Network^® (NCCN^®) is a not-for-profit alliance of leading cancer centers devoted to patient care, research, and education. NCCN is dedicated to defining and advancing quality, effective, equitable, and accessible cancer care and prevention so all people can live better lives. The NCCN Clinical Practice Guidelines in Oncology (NCCN Guidelines^®) provide transparent, evidence-based, expert consensus-driven recommendations for cancer treatment, prevention, and supportive services; they are the recognized standard for clinical direction and policy in cancer management and the most thorough and frequently-updated clinical practice guidelines available in any area of medicine. The NCCN Guidelines for Patients^® provide expert cancer treatment information to inform and empower patients and caregivers, through support from the National Comprehensive Cancer Network Foundation (NCCNF). NCCN also advances continuing education, global initiatives, policy, and research collaboration and publication in oncology. Visit NCCN.org for more information.

Media Contact:

Rachel Darwin

267-622-6624

darwin@nccn.org

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Indian Air Force Day 2026: IAF Marks 94th Anniversary With Air Shows and Grand Celebrations

New Delhi, Oct 8: India is observing Indian Air Force Day 2026 on Thursday, marking the 94th anniversary of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and honouring the service, courage and sacrifices of the country’s air warriors.

 Representational Image 

The annual observance commemorates the establishment of the IAF on October 8, 1932, and highlights its evolving role in air defence, combat operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

This year’s celebrations are being held at multiple locations, with the main ceremony scheduled at Hindon Air Force Station in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.

IAF Day 2026 Theme

The theme for the 94th Indian Air Force Day is “Indian Air Force – Infallible, Impervious and Precise.”

The theme reflects the force’s emphasis on operational readiness, technological capability, precision and resilience in meeting emerging security challenges.

Last year’s theme, “Saksham, Sashakt, Atmanirbhar”, highlighted the IAF’s focus on strengthening indigenous defence capabilities and promoting self-reliance.

Grand Parade and Flypast at Hindon

The main anniversary programme at Hindon will feature a ceremonial parade and an extensive aerial display.

A range of aircraft and helicopters, including Rafale, Su-30MKI, MiG-29, Tejas, C-17 and Apache, are scheduled to feature in the flypast, showcasing the IAF’s combat, transport and rotary-wing capabilities.

Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh will review the parade. The programme will also include the presentation of Presidential awards to personnel for distinguished service.

Mi-17 helicopters are expected to carry the National Flag, IAF flag and Operation Sindoor flag during the aerial display.

Air Show in Jodhpur

A major air display will also be held at Jodhpur Air Force Station on October 8.

The Suryakiran Aerobatic Team will headline the event with a series of coordinated aerial manoeuvres. The programme is expected to showcase the precision flying and professionalism of India’s premier aerobatic team.

Varanasi to Host Major Public Air Show

The celebrations will continue in Varanasi later this month, with a public air show scheduled over the Ganga on October 24, 25 and 26.

The main programme is scheduled for October 25 near Namo Ghat, featuring fighter aircraft, transport planes and aerobatic formations.

The event is expected to offer the public an opportunity to witness the capabilities of the Indian Air Force up close while marking the significance of the anniversary.

IAF’s Journey Since 1932

The Indian Air Force was established on October 8, 1932, during British rule. Its first operational squadron, No. 1 Squadron, was formed the following year.

After Independence, the IAF played a crucial role in the 1947-48 Jammu and Kashmir operations, followed by its participation in the wars of 1965 and 1971 and the Kargil conflict.

The force has also undertaken major humanitarian and disaster-relief operations and continues to play a vital role in surveillance, strategic airlift and national air defence.

The prefix “Royal” was dropped from its name in 1950 after India became a republic.

International Cooperation and Veterans’ Tribute

The anniversary celebrations also coincide with Tarang Shakti 2026, an international air exercise involving the IAF and foreign air forces. The exercise provides an opportunity to strengthen operational coordination, interoperability and exchange of best practices.

Veteran gatherings and interaction programmes are also being organised at various Air Force stations and venues, paying tribute to personnel who have contributed to the growth and transformation of the force over the decades.

Indian Air Force Day thus serves not only as a celebration of the service’s achievements but also as a reminder of the dedication of its personnel who remain entrusted with protecting the country’s skies and supporting the nation during times of crisis.

Odisha Bandh Disrupts Normal Life as INDIA Bloc Holds Statewide Protest

Bhubaneswar, Oct 8 (UDN): Normal life was disrupted across several parts of Odisha on Thursday as parties associated with the INDIA bloc observed a statewide bandh, with road blockades, demonstrations and rail stoppages reported at multiple locations.

 Representational Image 

The shutdown affected vehicular movement in several cities and towns, with protesters staging pickets and blocking roads and highways. Commuters faced traffic congestion and delays as the agitation gathered momentum during the day.

Road Blockades, Rail Roko Reported

Congress and other participating opposition parties organised demonstrations at various locations as part of the bandh.

In some areas, protesters reportedly blocked major roads and highways, while a Rail Roko programme was also observed at select railway stations, affecting train movement.

The protests led to disruptions in public transport and created difficulties for commuters and other travellers.

Essential Services Kept Out of Bandh

Emergency and essential services were kept outside the scope of the shutdown. Ambulances, fire services, pharmacies and vehicles carrying milk supplies were allowed to operate.

Protesters were also urged not to obstruct medical services, emergency response operations or other essential activities during the bandh.

The state administration had already directed district authorities to remain alert and take preventive measures to maintain law and order during the shutdown.

Three Major Demands Behind Protest

The Congress and its allies have cited several issues for the statewide agitation, with three major demands forming the focus of the protest.

One of the key demands is the withdrawal of the MMDR Amendment Act, 2026. The protesting parties have alleged that the amended mining legislation could adversely affect Odisha’s interests in its mineral resources and revenue.

The opposition has also sought the resignation of School and Mass Education Minister Nityananda Gond, alleging irregularities and errors in school textbooks.

Another major demand concerns the Election Commission. The protesters have called for the resignation and arrest of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, alleging irregularities in the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls.

Security Tightened Across State

With the bandh expected to affect normal movement, security arrangements have been strengthened at sensitive locations, including major roads, government establishments and railway stations.

Authorities are maintaining a close watch on the situation to prevent violence and ensure that essential services remain operational throughout the shutdown.