What Is Plastic Surgery?

Plastic surgery has become popular in recent years. Many people are opting for plastic surgery procedures to enhance their nose, breasts, lips and other areas of their body. This article discusses plastic surgery and everything you should know before going under the knife.

What is plastic surgery?

Plastic surgery is a medical procedure which is performed in order to alter or reshape a part of the body. Two types of plastic surgery exist: cosmetic and reconstructive.

Cosmetic surgery

There are various types of cosmetic surgery. People who opt for cosmetic surgery often do it because they want to change something they do not like about their appearance. For instance, breast implants to make the breasts bigger or collagen injections to make the lips look fuller. Laser surgery is another type of cosmetic surgery sometimes done to remove unwanted facial hair or tattoos.

Reconstructive surgery

This type of plastic surgery is also done to change unwanted aspects of a person’s appearance. However, it is typically performed to remove a deformity from birth or through an accident. Examples of reconstructive surgery are the correction of cleft lip or scar treatment after a burn. Reconstructive surgery can fix a defect and, sometimes, it can enhance the function of a part of the body. An example of this is ankle surgery which might help the patient walk better. Reconstructive plastic surgery can have a positive impact on a person’s life.

Types of reconstructive plastic surgery

• Otoplasty: This procedure is done to reshape or alter the size of the ear(s). It is often done after age five. The surgeon can pin back large ears that are sticking out to make them appear smaller
• Rhinoplasty: This surgery is done to reshape the nose only after it has reached its adult size. If there is no defect, rhinoplasty is classified under cosmetic surgery
• Correction of breast asymmetry: This involves reshaping and resizing the breasts. Surgeons often perform the procedure when the patient is suffering from back pain due to large and heavy breasts. It is only done when the breasts have fully formed
• Microdermabrasion or laser surgery: These procedures are usually done to change the appearance of scars resulting from acne

Why do people opt for plastic surgery?

People have different reasons for desiring plastic surgery. Social media, TV, movies, magazines and billboards are full of celebrities and models with "perfect" body features, and some people desire to have the same perfect body form. Some may want plastic surgery because they are not pleased with their appearance and want to avoid being teased about it.

Plastic surgery is known to be a big self-esteem booster. However, it is vital to note that plastic surgery is not an instant fix for regaining confidence and it is not certain that the person will feel better about their body or even like the result of the procedure.

Final note

Essentially, plastic surgery is a personal decision. The best way to get great results from the procedure to visit a board-certified plastic surgeon with a minimum of six years of surgical training, and at least three years of plastic surgery experience at a reputable and accredited hospital.

Request an appointment here: https://silverspring.paulcdillonmd.com or call Paul C. Dillon, MD Inc at (800) 518-9307 for an appointment in our Columbia office.

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