Cosmetic Surgery & You

There is no doubt that cosmetic surgery has gained much in popularity in the past years and is becoming a main stream method to improve one’s physical beauty and maintain their youthful appearance.  Although there has been much improvement in cosmetic plastic surgeries and they are quite safe, you need to know the risks and consequences, as they are after all surgical procedures.  

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. It’s not about size, shape or age. It’s about being your best from the inside out.  If you choose to have Cosmetic surgery it can have great benefits and can improve self image and confidence.  “You look good, You feel great!”

Besides the traditional invasive surgical procedures such as Breast Augmentation (Breast Enlargement), Breast Lift, Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Mommy Makeover, Post Massive Weight Loss and Gastric Bypass Surgery, Liposuction, Rhinoplasty (Nose Job), Face Lift, Eyelid Lift, and Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia Surgery), non- invasive procedures such as, Non-Surgical Facelift (Botox®, Restylane® and Juvederm®), Skin Care and Laser Treatments are becoming an alternative choice.

These non surgical procedure results are quick or immediate with minimal to no recovery.  Although the results with non surgical procedures are mostly temporary and not as dramatic as you would like, they are useful if you do not want surgery nor have time for recovery.  These non-surgical procedures are also helpful to keep looking younger until you are ready for surgery. 

Skin care products:  There are a variety of skin care products available.  These products are effective for aging, sun-damaged skin, uneven pigmentation and acne, while rejuvenating skin. 

Skin resurfacing: Chemical peels, micro-dermabrasion and laser treatments offer rejuvenation of tired, dull-looking, or damaged skin.  Your skin will look smoother, softer and healthier-looking.  

Facial injections:  Fine facial lines and creases can be smoothed with Facial Fillers such as Juvederm® and Restylane® and Botox®.  The results are immediate.

Why Cosmetic Surgery:

There are many reasons for choosing cosmetic surgery.

There were more than 10 million cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures performed in 2008, an increase of 162% from 1997, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

The decision to undergo any type of cosmetic procedure is personal. After all, cosmetic surgery is elective.

In order to stay competitive in the work force people are choosing cosmetic surgery. Looking young and refreshed gives extra edge in the competitive job market, whereas baggy, puffy eyes, wrinkles and creases on the face can make one look tired, unfocused and uninterested.  Eyelid lift, Facelift, Botox, Skin Care and Facial Fillers are great choices as a remedy.

Moms after having babies want to have their pre-baby bodies back.  Having children takes its toll on their bodies and more and more moms want to look great while raising children.

There may be features that one does not like and want to change such as a bump on the nose, protruding ears, small breasts on women and breasts on men to name a few.  Some of these features can create years of social and emotional problems.

As “Baby-Boomers” reach their golden years they not only make great efforts to maintain their health, but as well as their appearance.  They realized that “aging gracefully” does not have to be the only way to grow old.

Reconstructive procedures are also reasons to have plastic surgery: reconstruction of cleft-palate, pinning of protruding ears, correcting deviated septum, reconstruction of after mastectomy or skin cancer to name a few.

Realistic Expectations for Cosmetic Surgery:

Although cosmetic surgery will not change your life, it may give you greater self-confidence and add to your sense of well-being.  You should have cosmetic surgery for the right reasons.

There are many good reasons for seeking cosmetic surgery but some people seek cosmetic surgery for the wrong reasons and should reconsider their decision.  The decision to have cosmetic surgery in general should be for yourself and not to satisfy others.

Choosing the right surgeon:

When it comes to successful cosmetic surgery results, this is often dependent on the communication between you and your surgeon. Make sure you feel comfortable with your surgeon; he should explain the procedure in detail and answer all of your questions.  Your consultation visit should not be rushed.

There are many cosmetic surgery options to improve or change your face and body. When you talk to surgeons, be open about what you want, but be willing to listen to their recommendations. They may recommend a different procedure to achieve a similar result.

Quick tips on finding a good surgeon:

• Board Certified in Plastic Surgery:  Select a doctor who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Why? This means that the surgeon has completed specialized training in cosmetic surgery and has passed rigorous written and oral exams to earn certification.
• Experience:  How long has the surgeon been performing cosmetic surgery?  In general, the more experience the physician has in performing a certain procedure, the better the results.
• Communication:  Do you feel comfortable being open with your surgeon?  Did he answer all of your questions satisfactorily?  Have you been informed of possible risks, side effects, and recovery time associated with the cosmetic surgery?
• Review before and after pictures:  Pictures DO “speak volumes”.  Do see for yourself his actual work; fancy computer imaging systems are eye-catching but does not mean that the surgeon can deliver.
• Facility: If the surgeon operates from his office has it been approved by AAAASF(American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities)?  AAAASF is the most recognized accreditation organization in surgical facilities. This certification ensures that his facility has been inspected and approved to perform surgery.
• Anesthesia:  If your surgery is performed under general anesthesia who will be administering it?  Often to cut costs some surgeons use nurse anesthetists who are not M.D.'s.  It is a good idea to choose a surgeon who employs only Board Certified M.D. Anesthesiologists. 

If you have further questions call 631-476-7300 for a complimentary consultation with Dr. Gregory Diehl, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, in Port Jefferson Station, Suffolk County, Long Island,