According to a study by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 14.6 million surgical and minimally invasive cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States in 2012. With the rising popularity of appearance-altering procedures, a lot of information and resources exist; however, some common myths still persist.
Myth: Cosmetic Surgery is Dangerous
Some people may feel apprehensive about the risks associated with cosmetic surgery. It doesn’t help that there are numerous news reports of botched jobs and surgery-gone-wrong stories. While any surgical procedure poses some risk, cosmetic surgery is generally safe, as long as it’s performed by a board certified surgeon. If patients want to be sure they’re in the hands of a qualified surgeon, they can search websites such as American Board of Medical Specialties. To further reduce the risk of complications, each patient must follow the post-op directions provided by the surgeon. Over exertion could reopen surgical incisions, but under exertion could lead to a slow or incomplete recovery.
Myth: Cosmetic Enhancements Are Just for Women
Many body enhancement surgeries are becoming popular among men. In fact, according to studies done by the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, there was a whopping 273 percent increase in the number of men opting for enhancements between the years 1997 and 2013. The most common treatments among the male demographic include injectables, laser treatments, dermal fillers, and liposuction. Most men cite a need for a competitive edge in the corporate world as a motivation for going under the knife (or needle).
Myth: They are a Permanent (or Easy) Solution
Studies show that most people are left feeling satisfied and more confident after undergoing an aesthetic procedure. However, to achieve desired results, a person should go into the procedure with realistic expectations.
Many procedures are not a permanent and easy solution for any undesirable trait. For example, liposuction involves contouring the body by removing unwanted fat. If a patient relies solely on liposuction for weight loss, however, he or she will most likely gain the weight back. Liposuction can only do so much, but a healthier lifestyle after the procedure, including diet and exercise, maintains the results.
While these procedures can give a new look and attitude, many factors determine the long-term outcome. Cosmetic surgeries can help a person achieve a better body, but the patient should also remember that lifestyle choices, skin care, touch-ups, and overall health are also important parts of maintaining the new body.
