Plastic / Cosmetic Surgery

Plastic, cosmetic or aesthetic surgery is a type of surgery used to change a person’s appearance in order to achieve a desired look. In certain situations cosmetic surgery may be needed for medical reasons, such as breast reduction, which is sometimes used to alleviate back or neck pain.

Cosmetic surgery is different to reconstructive plastic surgery, which is a type of surgery used to repair damaged tissue following injury or illness.

How Much Does Cosmetic Surgery Cost?

Having cosmetic surgery can be expensive, time consuming and the results can’t be guaranteed, it is therefore a decision you should not make lightly.

Choosing A Surgeon

If you decide to have cosmetic surgery, it’s important that the surgeon and other healthcare professionals carrying out the procedure are fully qualified and experienced in the type of procedure you’re having.

You should discuss the procedure in detail with your surgeon. Ask as many questions as you need to so that you’re fully aware of what the procedure involves, how it will be carried out, what the results will be and whether there will be any after effects.

Types Of Cosmetic Surgery

Some of the most common types of surgical cosmetic surgery include:

• breast augmentation – surgery to increase breast size using breast implants
• breast reduction (male and female) – surgery to reduce the weight and volume of the breasts
• eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) – surgery to remove excess skin from the upper and lower eyelids to get rid of hooded eyelids or eye bags
• liposuction – surgery to remove unwanted body fat
• ear reshaping (otoplasty or pinnaplasty) – surgery to treat protruding ears

Common non-surgical procedures include:

• botulinum toxin injections – such as Botox, to help relax facial muscles and make lines and wrinkles less obvious
• dermal fillers – injected into wrinkles or creases to fill them out
• chemical peels – which use chemicals to remove the outer layer of skin cells
• microdermabrasion – which uses fine crystals and a vacuum to remove dead skin cells
• laser and intense light treatments – such as hair removal

How Common Are Cosmetic Procedures?

Cosmetic surgery is more popular than ever, with women account for about 9 in every 10 cosmetic surgery procedures.

Non-surgical cosmetic treatments are even more popular than surgical procedures, accounting for over 90% of all cosmetic procedures.

Alternatives To Surgery

There are plenty of simple things you can do every day to give your skin and body a healthier glow and boost:

• Avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight and always wear sun cream
• Quit smoking and lessen the skin-ageing process
• Exercise regularly to boost circulation
• Lose weight to improve body image
• Eat a healthy, nutrient-rich diet to improve your skin, hair and nails
• Stay hydrated and drink more water to flush your system
• Try skin firming creams – there are plenty of inexpensive products available
• Give yourself a makeover – try a new haircut or outfit style

Questions To Ask Yourself When Considering Surgery

It is sometimes the case that people seek cosmetic surgery to solve life problems, or during disruptive times in their lives when they feel bad about themselves – for example, during divorce. These are not good reasons to have surgery.

If you are considering surgery, ask yourself these questions:

• When did I start considering surgery?
• Did anything specific start these thoughts?
• Am I happy with my current life situation?
• Are there other ways I can achieve the results I want (exercise, etc.)?

Also ask yourself:

• Do I believe the surgery will change my life as well as my appearance?
• Am I considering cosmetic surgery to please someone else?
• Do I feel surgery will improve my relationship?
• Am I expecting surgery to improve my social skills or job prospects?
• Can surgery really give me the look I want?

If you’re feeling anxious or depressed about your relationships, social situations or work, don’t assume that surgery is a magic cure that will make everything better. Try talking to friends first or consider a form of counselling. You can approach your GP for advice.

Read through our useful links section below for further information and points to consider.

Links

• Plastic surgery – is it right for you?
• Body & Soul – Cosmetic Surgery Advice
• Web MD – Are You a Candidate for Plastic Surgery?
• Medic8 – Guide to Cosmetic Surgery
• Live Strong – Positive and Negative Benefits of Plastic Surgery
• Plastic Surgery Forum
• NHS – Cosmetic Surgery
• The British Association of Aesthetic Surgeons
• American Society of Plastic Surgeons