Thinking about plastic surgery? You’re not alone. Millions of people consider this option each year, seeking to improve their appearance or address physical concerns. But plastic surgery is a big decision, and it’s important to understand exactly what it is and what it involves.
So what exactly is Plastic Surgery? The word “plastic” in plastic surgery can be misleading as it doesn’t refer to the material but rather comes from the Greek word “plastikos.” “Plastikos” means to mold or shape. Plastic surgery is all about repairing, reconstructing, or altering the human body, molding and shaping it to meet one’s aesthetic goals.
Cosmetic (Aesthetic) Plastic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery is what most people think of when they hear “plastic surgery.” It involves procedures that aim to improve one’s appearance. While cosmetic procedures are not typically deemed medically necessary, they can have a profound impact on self-esteem and confidence and can have a life-transformative effect.
Common Plastic Surgeries
Plastic surgery can involve almost every part of the face, neck, and body. Common plastic surgeries include breast augmentation, facelifts, rhinoplasty (nose job), liposuction, and tummy tucks. Other procedures such as brow lifts are buttock enhancement are also becoming more sought after.
Plastic Surgery Techniques
Plastic surgery draws upon many principles to reshape and repair tissue and advanced techniques, from tissue expansion to flap surgery to grafting techniques. In the instance of grafts, surgeons take tissue, cartilage, or fat from one part of the body to build or rebuild another area to a desired outcome.
Plastic surgery is always changing and plastic surgery techniques seem to always advance, and quite significantly. Think about how far computers have come! This is especially true for grafting.
Autologous fat grafting, the incredible process of transforming your own body fat into a natural-looking enhancement, has been around for over a century. It all started in 1893 when a surgeon named Gustav Adolf Neuber pulled off the incredible feat of transplanting fat from a patient’s forearm to their face.
While fat grafting has been around for ages, it wasn’t until the ’80s that doctors truly discovered its amazing potential. With groundbreaking research proving it safe and effective, fat grafting rose in popularity. Today, up to 80% of plastic surgeons use this technique to create stunning results. (Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7023968/)
Now, grafts are used across a multitude of plastic surgeries, including rhinoplasty, breast augmentation, and buttock augmentation, also known as Brazilian buttock lifts.
Making the Decision: Is Plastic Surgery Right For You?
Deciding to undergo plastic surgery, particularly cosmetic procedures, is deeply personal. It’s not just about altering your physical form; plastic surgery can have a powerful effect on self-esteem and confidence. When seriously considering plastic surgery it’s important not to take this decision lightly. Consider your motivation. Why do you want plastic surgery? Are you seeking a drastic transformation or subtle refinements? Are you clear about your goals and expectations? Understanding your goals will go a long way in helping you achieve a positive outcome.
Choosing a Surgeon and Asking Questions
Your choice of plastic surgeon is also absolutely critical. My biggest piece of advice is to look for a board-certified plastic surgeon. This means they have completed extensive training and meet rigorous standards. (You can use online resources like the American Board of Plastic Surgery to find qualified surgeons and verify their Board certification.)
Next, consider the surgeon’s experience with the specific procedures you are interested in. Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation. During your visit, ask as many questions as you need. Make sure you are completely comfortable with their approach and experience. You also want to feel like your concerns and desires are heard. Review their before-and-after photos to get a sense of their work, and most importantly, trust your gut. Some procedures more than others require very extensive experience. Patients undergoing breast implant revision surgery, for example, should expect no less than the very best training and experience.
Patient Safety
Safety comes first. It’s essential to do your research and be aware of the potential risks involved in any procedure. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons is a fantastic resource to understand these risks and potential complications. This resource provides valuable information about various plastic surgeries, including buttock enhancement, breast implants, and liposuction.
Make sure to discuss your medical history with your surgeon and ask any questions about anesthesia or recovery time. Understand what your recovery will entail and outline a plan for your care and recovery.
Plastic Surgery, a Highly Personal Decision
Ultimately, the decision to undergo plastic surgery is highly individual and it’s important to be 100% comfortable with your decision. Once you decide on plastic surgery, there is a lot you can do to ensure a positive experience for yourself. Take a true assessment of your personal aesthetic goals; arm yourself with knowledge about different procedures, safety protocols, and potential complications; and above all, remember to find a skilled, compassionate, and board-certified plastic surgeon who will prioritize your health and well-being. You are in control, and a reputable surgeon will prioritize your well-being and empower you to make the right choices.
