More people of colour, than ever before, are undergoing plastic surgery. With modern advancements in surgery it is hard not to resist the lure of the knife and what it can do for your appearance. If you are considering cosmetic surgery, you probably have good reason for doing so but take time to determine your motivation as you will have to live with the results. Remember, it is not going to change your life, nor is it the answer to all of your problems. Are you sure that you really want surgery or is it simply a case of low self-esteem?
Turning Back The Hands Of Time
As the body ages, the skin begins to sag, collagen production begins to slow down, and the body begins to show that it is beginning to break down and to slow down. These changes also help to make a person feel older than they actually are. And in some cases, those who are genetically predisposed to having a greater rate of ageing can begin to look older than they actually are. Cosmetic surgery can tighten the skin again, reshape it and make you look more youthful.
Self-esteem
One of the most common reasons for cosmetic surgery is to feel better about oneself. While this is not a medical reason, it can still certainly be a valid one. For example, if you were a woman who had a smaller chest, it might make you feel a little less feminine and that can cause you to have low self-esteem. Taking control of your appearance, can help you learn to love your body more.
Medical Problem
In many cases, cosmetic surgery is a necessity, such as nose jobs for deviated septums to allow the patient to breathe normally. While the surgery is technically a rhinoplasty, it is also helping the patient have a more normal life. Another example is when people are severely burned or injured in accidents, plastic surgeons are called in to help repair the skin in a way that will minimise scarring and disfigurement.
Correct A Disfiguration
Some people are born with a problem with their appearance that needs to be corrected with cosmetic surgery. These procedures can be simple or they can be complicated, depending on the severity. Many of these will occur early on in life and be corrected early in the patient’s life, while others will require the body to mature completely before they can be corrected. For others, it might be after a great change in their bodies. For example, mothers who want a tummy tuck to return to their pre-pregnancy bodies or for those who have lost a lot of weight, however certain body parts cannot be changed by exercise and diet.
Your Expectations
You need to have realistic expectations for your cosmetic surgery. Although it will significantly improve your life and your appearance, chances are that you will never be completely perfect. Nor will it will change your life or any problems that you have. Remember, surgery will have different results for different people. If you enter into it with unrealistic expectations, due to a negative self image for example, you are only going to be disappointed with the results.
Do You Have What It Takes For Cosmetic Surgery?
Surgeons perform cosmetic surgery which changes appearance or form. They also perform reconstructive plastic surgery which restores form and function following illness or trauma. Either way, doctors require that patients who are healthy, have realistic expectations, who understand the risks and are able to follow the directions they give them. Do you have what it takes for plastic or cosmetic surgery?
Your Health
It is important that you are honest with your doctor during his or her assessment of you or, not only will you put your health at risk, but you might also lessen the results that you expect. Your body should be healthy and in good shape so it will be able to withstand the stress of an operation and to heal more quickly. Ideally, you will be between 25 and 45 years old, a non-smoker, clean of illegal drugs, of an average weight, no heart or circulation problems and be free of allergies and infections.
The Risks
Although most cosmetic surgeries are not necessary, it does not mean that they are not dangerous. Cutting into a body, exposes it to the possibility of infection, scarring, and even death. Before you go into any surgery, be aware of all of the potential risks:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Blood clots in the legs or lungs
- Loss of blood
- Disfiguration
- Reactions to the anaesthesia
- Extreme pain
- Edema
- Shock
Pre & Post- Op Instructions
It is crucial that you follow your doctor’s instructions as they can help to expedite your healing time as well as minimise the possibility of infection and of poor results.
How To Find A Good Plastic Surgeon?
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