Cosmetic surgery is plastic surgery performed with artistic application of surgical technique to improve or enhance appearance. A cosmetic physician studies the patient’s features and designs a procedure to create the most pleasing results.
Function, as well as appearance, must be considered when advising the patient. This is particularly important when considering facial plastic surgery. A surgeon’s strong surgical background which emphasized the anatomy of the head can be critical in maintaining or improving function. For example, an attractive nose is of little value if it does not breathe properly – remember, we breathe eight million times a year.
When should I consider cosmetic surgery?
For most people, looking and feeling better is a life-style choice. In the past, a heart attack signaled the start of weight/diet management and exercise programs. But today people at a younger age understand the consequence of life-style. They make choices that preserve and conserve both their health and appearance.
Driven by this demand, surgical approaches and techniques have evolved which maximize results with minimal surgical intervention. Decelerating the aging process with relatively small procedures at an earlier age reinforces facial and body integrity – which prolongs a more youthful appearance.
Am I a candidate for cosmetic surgery?
Thousands of plastic surgeries are performed each year on men, women, and children. Young children who suffer with protruding ears or a congenital deformity may seek correction at a very early age. Teens whose skeletal growth has been completed-usually around age 15 for girls and 17 for boys – may wish to refine the appearance of a large nose or to alleviate severe breathing problems. Typically, adult male and female patients are between the ages of 25 and 70.
There are very few medical conditions which preclude cosmetic surgery. Please advise us of any chronic condition you may have or any medications you may be taking regularly, because these may increase the risk of complications or inhibit the healing process. Since alcohol consumption and smoking can impact surgical results, full disclosure by the patient is necessary. Procedures can then be modified to reduce complications.
It is important to know that certain risks accompany any kind of surgery, including cosmetic surgery. Possible complications include excessive bleeding or scarring, adverse reactions to drug or anesthesia, nerve damage, and postoperative infection. Dr. Agarwal, Dr. Maloney, and Dr. Holmes will help you to understand the potential risks you may encounter, and will assist you in your decision.
What can I reasonably expect from my surgery?
It is normal and healthy to want to look one’s best. Knowing we project an attractive image enhances our self-image which improves our self-esteem. There is abundant evidence that improved self-image and self- esteem has a positive effect on personal relationships and career advancements.
It is important to note that cosmetic surgery is not a panacea. It will not resolve deep-seated emotional or social problems. Seen in its proper perspective, however, cosmetic surgery is an effective means of improving – not perfecting – one’s appearance.
Individual characteristics such as age, skin texture, and general health must be considered. We will do all we can to help you achieve the desired change in your appearance. Please understand that our professional judgment has been developed through many years of training and experience. We will discuss with you what we consider to be a realistic as well as a cosmetic expectation.