Plastic Surgery Facts

PlasticSurgeryFacts

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Plastic surgery is the process by which different parts of the body are reconstructed or repaired, often by transferring or moving tissue. In fact, the word “plastic” is actually derived from the Greek “plastikos,” which means to mold. In general terms, plastic surgery can be considered the molding of the body for the purposes of treating an injury or changing the appearance cosmetically.

The two main forms of plastic surgery are cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery. In terms of cosmetic surgery, 1.68 million procedures were performed in the last year with liposuction, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentation being the most frequent. Breast augmentation was the leading cosmetic procedure with 286,000 surgeries performed in 2014 alone. For reconstructive surgery 5.7 million surgeries were performed last year. The most common forms of reconstruction were maxillofacial surgery, laceration repair, and tumor removal. The top reconstructive surgery was tumor removal with 4.4 million procedures performed.

Plastic surgery also includes minimally invasive surgery or nonsurgical cosmetic procedures. Botox, soft tissue fillers, chemical peels, laser hair removal, and microdermabrasion all fall within this category. The most common nonsurgical cosmetic procedure was Botox with 6.67 million procedures completed in 2014.

Patients seek reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for various reasons. It is easy to see that reconstructive surgery is directly related to a medical condition. While many patients seek cosmetic surgery primarily for aesthetic enhancements, they can also benefit from improved physical function, enhanced emotional well-being, and even heightened self-confidence.

Dr. Shahram Salemy, a leading Seattle Plastic Surgeon, indicates, “Any form of plastic surgery relies on principles of both cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, which is why it is critical to seek out a board certified plastic surgeon.”

Recognized as an ABMS Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and named “One of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons” by The Consumer’s Research Council of America, Dr. Salemy offers cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures in Seattle and Richland, Washington. His specialties include facial rejuvenation, breast enhancement and body contouring procedures.
To schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Salemy call (206) 467-1101 or email his Seattle office.