You are only as young as you feel. But most people are not convinced by that when they notice wrinkles and receding hairlines. As the plastic surgery industry continues to grow, so too do the techniques and tools associated with the various procedures. Along with these advancements in the field comes an improved understanding of the human body and how it changes with age.
Plastic surgery can be an ideal choice for those who suffer from deformities or self-esteem problems. Perhaps you have been all too aware of the flaws in your face and body, and are tired of feeling bad about them. Maybe you try to hide certain facial or body features by camouflaging them.
At the end of the day, however, these flaws can really take a toll on your self-image. Everywhere you look, there are people who look more symmetrical, more in shape, and younger than you do. This may invoke feelings of depression and insecurity, and it’s only natural to feel that way.
With a large percentage of the American population getting older, facial rejuvenation procedures are more popular than ever. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (or ASPS) more than 5.6 million people received Botox or Dysport treatments and another 1.8 million people had soft tissue filler procedures last year. That is a growth of 5% for Botox and Dysport and more than 7% for facial fillers (like Juvederm, Radiesse, or the use of people’s own fat) from the year before.
The high demand for non-invasive facial rejuvenation procedures has driven the research regarding aging. The new insights have been nothing short of amazing and are driving the developments in the plastic surgery industry that help the fight against aging.
The biggest development cosmetic surgery over the past five years in regards to facial aging is the significant role volume plays in a patient’s appearance. The loss of facial volume or fat atrophy is one of the biggest contributors to an aged appearance. Other factors include environmental exposure such as sun damage and the loss of elasticity in the facial skin that causes sagging.
The nose job or rhinoplasty, is just one of dozens of treatments available for big spenders . As the nose is rumored to be the most prominent feature on a person’s face, many are quick to have their noses sculpted to perfection, or at least to improvement through a nose job. In addition to aesthetic nose surgery, procedures such as aesthetic ear surgery, cosmetic eyelid surgery, facelifts, forehead lifts, and chemical face peels attempt to present cosmetic surgery patients with a more appealing visage.
Albeit the excitement of restoring younger looking skin, there are risk factors you should take into consideration when contemplating about undergoing cosmetic surgery. As with all surgical procedures, certain inherent risks are involved with cosmetic surgery. Infection, dry eye problems/ decreased tear production, bleeding, blindness and damage to nerves, blood vessels and muscles within the eye are just a few complications that can occur when a Blepharoplasty is performed.
Less serious risks can include allergic reactions, asymmetry (a notable difference in appearance of the eyes), chronic pain, delayed or prolonged healing of the affected area, permanent or temporary eyelash hair loss, scarring, and dissatisfaction with the end result, among others. This is not to mention additional risks involved with local and general anesthesia administered to patients receiving surgical treatment.
You can mitigate the risks by doing extensive research about various cosmetic surgeries and selecting the right surgeon that you can trust. Do not allow price be the foremost determining factor in choosing a surgeon. Checking credentials and references, asking lots of questions, and be on the look-out for red flags is crucial to choosing the most qualified surgeon for the job. It is important that you go into surgery in the best health condition possible by taking care of yourself, and not letting your desire for the surgery overshadow any serious health considerations.
While the risks of plastic surgery do vary from one procedure to another, certain risks are common to all surgecal procedures, and some of the risks are more grave than others. Only you can decide if it’s worth it for you. Educate yourself and take all the benefits and ramifications of cosmetic surgery into consideration.
