Cosmetic surgery is a type of plastic surgery that aims to improve or change the appearance of an otherwise healthy part of the body for aesthetic reasons. Unlike plastic surgery which is done for medical reasons, such as correcting a birth defect or repairing an injury, cosmetic surgery is elective and not medically necessary.
Cosmetic surgery can involve various procedures that can be performed on any part of the face or body. Some of the most common cosmetic surgeries are:
Common Procedures
Here are some of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures.
1. Botox
This is an injection of botulinum toxin that temporarily paralyzes the muscles that cause wrinkles and fine lines. It can be used to smooth out the forehead, frown lines, crow’s feet, and other areas of the face.
2. Cheek lift
This is a surgery that lifts and repositions the cheek fat pads to create a more youthful and defined facial contour. It can also reduce sagging skin and wrinkles around the lower eyelids and mouth.
3. Chemical peel
This is a treatment that uses a chemical solution to peel off the outer layer of the skin, revealing a smoother and more even complexion. It can be used to treat acne scars, sun damage, age spots, and other skin imperfections.
5. Cosmetic dentistry
This is a branch of dentistry that focuses on improving the appearance of the teeth and gums. It can include procedures such as teeth whitening, veneers, crowns, bridges, implants, braces, and gum contouring.
6. Eyebrow/forehead rejuvenation (brow lift)
This is a surgery that lifts and tightens the skin and muscles of the forehead and eyebrows, reducing sagging and drooping. It can also smooth out forehead creases and elevate the eyebrows to a more alert and youthful position.
7. Face-lift
This is a surgery that lifts and tightens the skin and muscles of the face and neck, reducing sagging and wrinkles. It can also remove excess fat and skin from the lower face and neck, creating a more defined jawline and chin.
8. Liposuction
This is a surgery that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body using a suction device. It can be used to contour the abdomen, hips, thighs, arms, chin, neck, and other parts of the body.
Nose surgery (rhinoplasty)
This is a surgery that reshapes or modifies the nose to improve its size, shape, or function. It can also correct breathing problems caused by structural defects or injuries.
9. Breast augmentation
This is a surgery that increases the size or fullness of the breasts using implants filled with saline or silicone gel. It can also improve the shape or symmetry of the breasts.
How To Choose A Cosmetic Surgeon?
Choosing a cosmetic surgeon is one of the most important decisions you will make when considering cosmetic surgery. A good cosmetic surgeon usually has his/her own medical clinic or works at the top clinics in the area. For example, Dr. Arjang Yazdani opened his own aesthetic medical clinic after years of research, study, and practice in laboratories and other clinics.
1. The appropriate qualifications and credentials
The surgeon should be board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) or the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery (ABCS), which means they have completed rigorous training and examinations in plastic or cosmetic surgery. The surgeon should also have a valid license to practice in your state and be affiliated with accredited hospitals or surgical facilities.
2. The relevant experience and expertise
The surgeon should have extensive experience and expertise in performing the specific procedure you are interested in. The surgeon should be able to show you before-and-after photos of their previous patients and explain the risks and benefits of the procedure in detail.
3. The good reputation and reviews
The surgeon should have a good reputation and positive reviews from their previous patients and peers. You can check online reviews on websites such as RealSelf.com or Healthgrades.com or ask for referrals from your friends or family who have had cosmetic surgery.
4. Rapport and communication
The surgeon should make you feel comfortable and confident in your abilities. The surgeon should listen to your goals and expectations and provide honest and realistic feedback. The surgeon should also answer all your questions and concerns clearly and patiently.
What to do before and after surgery?
Here are what you need to keep in mind before and after plastic surgery.
Before Plastic Surgery
- Consult your plastic surgeon about your goals, options, risks, costs, and recovery.
- Have a physical exam and lab tests to check your health and suitability.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions on medications, supplements, smoking, alcohol, diet, hygiene, and transportation.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you for a day.
- Take a week off work and get help with childcare if needed.
- Avoid exercise and heavy lifting for a month.
- Take off your acrylic nails prior to the surgery
- Prepare your bed according to your surgeon’s instructions on how to sleep.
- Set out your prescriptions and supplies for after surgery.
- Review the WHO surgical checklist with your surgeon and anesthesiologist.
After Plastic Surgery
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions on wound care, pain relief, antibiotics, compression garments, drains, activity level, and follow-up visits.
- Watch for signs of infection, such as redness, swelling, warmth, pus, or fever. Call your surgeon if you have any concerns.
- Keep your incisions clean and dry and do not touch or pick at them. Change your dressings as instructed.
- Take your medications as prescribed, and do not take any other drugs or supplements without asking your surgeon.
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat a balanced diet to promote healing.
- Rest and avoid stress or exertion. Do not drive or operate machinery until cleared by your surgeon.
- Elevate the operated area and apply ice packs to reduce swelling and bruising.
- Avoid sun exposure and use sunscreen on the operated area once healed. Sun damage can worsen scarring and affect the result.
- Be patient and realistic with your expectations. It may take weeks or months for the final result to show. Do not judge your appearance too soon or compare yourself to others. Cosmetic surgery is not a guarantee of happiness or success.
Conclusion
Cosmetic surgery is a type of plastic surgery that can change or enhance the appearance of an otherwise healthy part of the body.
Cosmetic surgery can have many benefits, such as improving one’s self-confidence, function, and well-being, but it also has many risks and complications, such as infection, bleeding, scarring, nerve damage, and anesthesia problems.
Therefore, anyone who is considering cosmetic surgery should do their research, weigh the pros and cons, and choose a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Cosmetic surgery is a personal decision that should be made with care and caution.
