People often associate plastic surgery with celebrity faces undergoing procedures to delay signs of aging or those trying to rebuild a damaged chin due to dog bites; however, there are numerous additional advantages of plastic surgery procedures.
Weight-loss surgery may help with weight loss, breathing improvements, back and neck pain reduction and increased self-confidence – not to mention earning potential growth! But before undertaking such procedures it is crucial that you educate yourself thoroughly on this procedure as well as have realistic expectations.
Types
Plastic surgeons may specialize in various fields. Some surgeons specialize in facial procedures, including eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), rhinoplasty (nose job) and otoplasty (ear pinning or reshaping). Others may choose breast or body contouring surgeries such as liposuction; or they could focus on body shaping techniques like tummy tucks and liposuction.
Reconstructive plastic surgery aims to restore normal function and natural appearance to damaged parts of the face or body caused by birth defects, birth injuries, burns, disease or tumors. A reconstructive surgeon may use autografts, made from tissue taken directly from the patient; allografts (donated tissues from another individual); or synthetic materials like Integra for reconstruction purposes.
Some individuals seek plastic surgery for emotional reasons. Perhaps they’re feeling insecure about a part of their appearance such as excess chin fat or protruding ears; in these instances, counseling with a licensed therapist might be the better solution than cosmetic surgery; they can help patients learn to cope with their feelings while setting realistic expectations about how their appearance should change over time.
Procedures
Plastic surgeons employ various techniques to move and manipulate body tissues, such as extracting excess fat from an abdomen to contour it more closely, or adding skin grafts for burn scars. Surgeons will explain to patients how changing one aspect may alter other features in order to reach an harmonious result.
Many individuals who opt for cosmetic surgery seek relief from an issue that’s causing distress or discomfort – both psychologically and physically. Men suffering from gynecomastia might seek surgery to reduce breast tissue; others might choose an otoplasty (surgery to pin back protruding ears) or laser treatments to diminish birthmarks or other marks on the skin.
Plastic surgeons perform reconstructive surgery to restore function to damaged parts of the body after cancer or accident-related trauma, such as limbs and organs. They may also repair congenital defects that cause excessive growth such as Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome.
Recovery
At least some procedures involving plastic surgery involve an extended recovery period that could last weeks or even months, with rest and limited activity being necessary during healing. It’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s aftercare instructions in order to avoid complications and ensure proper healing.
Arranging for assistance during the recovery process can be invaluable. Arrange for someone to run errands, care for pets and children so you can focus on rest. Consider lodging at a medical facility offering 24-hour care or asking family and friends to assist with household duties.
After surgery, it’s also wise to clear your schedule for at least the first few days after. Spend some time in bed watching television or reading a book; don’t forget to stock up on enough pillows so they can prop up your head and reduce swelling after facial plastic procedures, like rhinoplasty. Keep over-the-counter pain relievers nearby just in case prescription treatments don’t help or symptoms flare up unexpectedly.
Costs
Many patients consider cost as one of their main deciding factors when considering plastic surgery, but price alone shouldn’t be your sole focus when making their choice. Consider also your surgeon’s experience, quality results and patient education as essential elements when making your choice. Be wary of practices offering “bargain basement” prices while conducting adequate research into each surgeon’s credentials, references and photos before making your final choice.
Though plastic surgery can be an expensive investment, many find the returns worthwhile. Most patients who undergo cosmetic procedures experience increased confidence and renewed self-esteem that positively impact both professional and social lives alike. Furthermore, some procedures can relieve any associated pain such as sagging skin or back, shoulder, or neck discomfort; all contributing to an overall improved quality of life; many who undergo plastic surgery often regret not having done it sooner!