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When deciding to undergo cosmetic surgery, finding the best surgeon with the necessary qualifications, experience, and expertise is crucial to ensure a safe and successful outcome. You also want one who believes in sharing with their patients accurate and balanced information about their chosen procedure and plastic surgery in general.
At Napa Solano Plastic Surgery, we’re committed to combatting misconceptions about plastic surgery, including facial procedures and treatments. For instance, many people rely on anecdotal experiences or rumors like “plastic surgery results are always obvious.” The reality? Advanced technologies and techniques have resulted in natural and subtle plastic surgery results that enhance facial features, not completely change your appearance.
Top 9 Common Misconceptions About Cosmetic Surgery
Whether it’s a lack of information, media portrayals, or unrealistic expectations, plastic surgery myths and misconceptions abound. Let’s look at the ones we hear most frequently.
Plastic surgery’s only for the rich and famous.
Celebrities indeed undergo plastic surgery, but it definitely isn’t limited to them. Cosmetic surgery is a viable and accessible option for people from all types of socioeconomic backgrounds. What you pay for your plastic surgery depends on the chosen procedure, the surgeon’s fee, and other factors, like whether the treatment is medically necessary. Many plastic surgery facilities, including ours, accept credit cards, insurance, and financing options.
Plastic surgery is solely for cosmetic purposes.
While many choose plastic surgery procedures like facelifts for cosmetic purposes, it also helps correct injuries or medical conditions, such as a cleft lip or deviated septum.
- Cosmetic surgery focuses on enhancing and improving one’s aesthetic appearance.
- Reconstructive surgery helps restore function, correct deformities, and improve appearance.
Most plastic surgeons are trained and certified to perform cosmetic and reconstructive procedures.
All plastic surgeons are the same.
All plastic surgeons undergo intensive and extensive education and training, but their specialization areas, skillsets, and experience can vary. That’s why choosing a board-certified cosmetic surgeon experienced in your chosen procedure in critical. For example, after completing their residency, some plastic surgeon train in specialties like hand, breast, or craniofacial surgery.
Keep in mind that, even among seemingly similar plastic surgeons, there could be differences in things like their personal approach to patient care. When choosing the best plastic surgeon for your procedure, be sure to research their qualifications, read patient reviews, and have a thorough consultation about your goals and concerns.
Plastic surgery provides instant and permanent results.
It’s reasonable for people to want immediate results from their procedure. However, plastic surgery results often take time to become fully visible, and they can vary depending on the individual’s healing capabilities, the procedure itself, and whether a patient follows post-op instructions.
Having realistic expectations about your recovery and how long your results will last helps you get through the waiting period. It’s also important to remember that even procedures designed to produce long-lasting outcomes are eventually impacted by lifestyle factors and the natural aging process. For instance, if you invest in a facelift, it will typically provide long-term results. The good news is that while the aging process will continue to affect your face, it will begin from a more youthful position.
Lastly, many people believe plastic surgery always involves “going under the knife.” However, while some procedures involve incisions, various non-invasive options are also available, including laser treatments, chemical peels, and injectable fillers. In those instances, you’ll need maintenance or touch-up treatments to sustain your desired results.
Plastic surgery is only for women.
The idea that women are the only ones getting facelifts or undergoing other plastic surgery procedures outdated. The number of men investing in facelifts has steadily increased in recent years as they, too, seek to reverse the signs of aging and achieve more youthful appearances.
Other procedures men choose include rhinoplasty, liposuction, hair transplants, and male breast reduction.
Plastic surgery guarantees a flawless appearance.
It’s natural to strive for self-improvement. However, the concept of flawless beauty doesn’t solve all of life’s problems. Shifting the focus from perfect to self-acceptance can foster a sense of authenticity and inner peace.
When all’s said and done, there are always limitations to what plastic surgery can achieve. Having an open and honest conversation with your plastic surgeon about your hopes and expectations can help them give you a realistic assessment of what your results might be, as well as the risks and benefits associated with your chosen procedure.
Recovery from plastic surgery is quick and easy.
Like with all surgeries, plastic surgery recovery takes time. Some surgeries require extended downtime, with full recovery taking weeks or months. How long your recovery takes depends on the procedure, whether there are incisions, and your healing capabilities. Many procedures cause bruising and swelling, which typically resolve the most quickly.
No matter which cosmetic surgery procedure you undergo, following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is crucial for a successful recovery.
Plastic surgery eliminates the need for a healthy lifestyle.
It would be nice if undergoing plastic surgery freed us from having to maintain a healthy lifestyle. While cosmetic surgery enhances your appearance, it isn’t a substitute for following a healthy way of life. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and practicing good skin care will always be critical for long-term health and well-being.
Aside from being beneficial to your recovery and overall well-being, adopting a healthy lifestyle also helps you manage your weight and can prolong how long your plastic surgery results last. After facial procedures like facelifts and rejuvenation treatments, be sure to use safe and gentle cleansing, moisturizing, and protection products to protect your skin from the sun and other environmental damage.
Be sure to ask your plastic surgeon about any lifestyle restrictions or change you might need to follow after your procedure.
Anyone can undergo any plastic surgery procedure.
The many different types of plastic surgery address various concerns, but not everyone is the ideal candidate for each one. During your initial consultation with a plastic surgeon, it’s important to discuss factors like:
- Overall health, which helps determine if you’re eligible for surgery.
- Age restrictions for certain procedures.
- Psychological readiness for the procedure and recovery process.
These general misconceptions don’t apply to everyone, but they can help put to rest any concerns you might have about plastic surgery. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon provides you with personalized information and guidance in choosing a procedure that’s safe and suitable for you.
Find the Best Plastic Surgeon for Your Facial Procedure
Consulting with a qualified plastic surgeon and conducting thorough research will help you gain a better understanding of plastic surgery procedures and the results you can expect. The more informed you are, the more successful your cosmetic surgery procedure can be. You’ll also be happier with the results, as they’ll meet the expectations you discussed in your consultation.
The surgeons at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery are dedicated to:
- Fulfilling your cosmetic surgery goals without jeopardizing your happiness or health.
- Making your overall health a priority.
- Ensuring you are mentally, emotionally, and physically prepared to undergo your chosen procedure.
We understand that investing in cosmetic surgery is a personal journey. That’s why we make it our mission to view our patients as equal partners in the plastic surgery process. To learn more about all our services or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced and skilled surgeons, get in touch with us today.
Blog
When considering plastic surgery, it’s crucial to research and find the best plastic surgeon for your desired procedure. A skilled professional not only listens to your concerns and desired outcomes but also thoroughly explains what each procedure is and its associated risks, benefits, and alternatives.
The cosmetic surgeons at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery are experts in face, breast, body, skin, and hair procedures. We take a personalized approach to each of our patient’s treatment and prioritize your safety and comfort from initial consultation to recovery.
Plastic Surgery Procedures We Provide
Our reputable and state-of-the-art surgery centers provide a range of procedures tailored to your needs and desires. Our board-certified plastic surgeons use the latest techniques and technologies to help you achieve your desired outcomes.
Breast surgery
Cosmetic surgery performed on the breasts include:
- Breast augmentation
- Breast reduction
- Breast lift
- Breast reconstruction
Whether you want to lift, contour, or reshape your breasts, our surgeons are committed to helping you feel at home in your body.
Facial surgery
Common facial cosmetic surgery procedures include:
- Facelifts
- Neck lifts
- Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
- Blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery)
- Brow lifts
- Otoplasty (ear surgery or pinning)
Body contouring
Liposuction, tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, and arm, thigh, and body lifts remove fat, shape areas of the body, and tighten skin. While these types of plastic surgery tend to have longer recovery times, they usually provide more noticeable results.
We also offer CoolSculpting, a non-invasive fat removal procedure.
Skin rejuvenation
Botox injections, fillers, chemical peels, spider vein treatment, and laser resurfacing improve your skin’s appearance, texture, and tone. These procedures can be used to minimize the appearance of fine lines, wrinkles, and scars, boosting your confidence and overall well-being.
Hair transplant
For patients who want to address balding or thinning hair, we offer hair transplant procedures that harvest hair from one part of your body and implant it in another area, typically the scalp. The result is a natural-looking head of hair that helps you meet your goal of self-improvement.
Reconstructive surgery
Our reconstructive surgery procedures are designed to correct body and facial abnormalities caused by injury, disease, aging, or congenital disorders. Common surgeries include cleft lip and palate repair, skin grafting, and burn reconstruction.
Entrusting Your Cosmetic Surgery to the Best Plastic Surgeon in Napa
Don’t settle for anything less than the best plastic surgeon when it comes to altering or enhancing your appearance.
The surgical center you choose should be, at a minimum, accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), and the Joint Commission. And the surgeon you choose should have a good reputation and extensive experience performing the procedure you’re interested in.
We invite you to schedule a consultation with one of Napa Solano Plastic Surgery’s skilled surgeons today, and look forward to helping you achieve the cosmetic surgery results you dream of.
Blog
Are you thinking of investing in cosmetic surgery? Have you been searching for a “plastic surgeon near me” but are still unsure what you should be looking for or the questions you should ask?
To help make your plastic surgery experience as stress-free as possible, we’re sharing our best “before, during, and after” steps that will leave you feeling ready, empowered, and comfortable as the day for your procedure approaches.
Before Your Cosmetic Surgery Procedure: Consultation
A pre-surgery consultation with your plastic surgeon is a great way to develop a rapport, ask questions, and decide which treatment is right for you. A typical consultation at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery includes:
- Discussing the procedure you want performed.
- Learning about your medical history.
- Establishing your goals and expectations.
- What to expect during recovery.
Your surgeon will also discuss any risks and benefits of your chosen procedure. They might also perform a physical exam and request blood or other diagnostic tests to ensure you’re a good candidate for surgery.
You’ll also receive pre-operative instructions specific to your procedure but typically contain standard directions like not smoking, avoiding certain supplements and medications, and arranging for transportation to and from our facility.
Lastly, your surgeon will help you mentally prepare for your procedure, including sharing tips for keeping your expectations of the outcome realistic.
During the Procedure: What Happens in Surgery
People have many cosmetic surgery procedures to choose from, including breast augmentation, liposuction, and tummy tucks. Each type has its specific process, but all surgeries have these things in common:
- Anesthesia. All plastic surgery procedures use some form of anesthesia to ensure you remain safe and comfortable.
- Incisions. Plastic surgeons use different techniques during cosmetic surgery based on the work being done. Examples include endoscopic surgery, flap surgery, skin grafts, laser technology, and tissue expansion.
- Surgery. Standard surgical methods involve removing excess skin, placing implants, and resizing or reshaping tissues.
- Closure. The surgeon uses sutures or staples to close your incisions. The wound is then dressed.
Post-Surgery: What to Expect in Recovery
Once your plastic surgery procedure is complete, it’s time for recovery to begin. Your surgeon will provide you with detailed instructions on caring for your incisions and how to use any drains or medical devices.
If necessary, you’ll be prescribed pain medications or receive recommendations for over-the-counter pain relievers to help manage any discomfort you might experience. You might notice some swelling in the treated area, and there could be some bruising. Both conditions are usually mild and disappear within a week or so.
Your surgeon will schedule follow-up appoints to:
- Ensure your recovery is progressing as it should.
- Remove staples or sutures.
- Check for complications.
As for outcomes, depending on the procedure you choose, you could see immediate results, or it could take weeks or months for the full effects to be apparent.
Book a Plastic Surgery Consultation Today!
Are you ready to move forward with your plastic surgery procedure? Request a one-on-one consultation with a Napa Solano Plastic Surgery surgeon today or call our Napa (707-258-6053) or Vacaville (707-448-3436) facilities to learn more.
Blog
Choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is always a highly personal decision and sometimes a difficult one. Whether you’re hoping to enhance your appearance with a breast augmentation, facelift, or another procedure, meeting with a board-certified plastic surgeon ahead of time is a great way to ease your mind and address any concerns you might have.
The skilled doctors at Napa Solana Plastic surgery are experts in the cosmetic surgery field. Their compassion and care for each patient provide a caring environment that ensures feelings of privacy, support, and satisfaction. We want you to feel confident about the procedure and plastic surgeon you choose.
Tips for Choosing the Best Plastic Surgeon for Your Needs
Plastic surgery is meant to be a positive and stress-free experience. So choosing the right plastic surgeon is crucial to ensuring a successful procedure outcome.
Consider these factors as you narrow down your choices and make a decision.
Board certification
Medical credentials can be confusing if you’re unfamiliar with what they mean. A plastic surgeon board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) has undergone the rigorous board certification process by the only board the American Board of Medical Specialties recognizes. Board certification signals you can trust a cosmetic surgeon to be highly trained and qualified to perform your procedure.
Experience and expertise
Along with comprehensive training, your plastic surgeon should have extensive experience and a proven track record in performing the procedure you’re interested in. And they should be able to customize the treatment to your situation and needs.
Patient reviews
Ask to review similar patient cases and testimonials and request before and after photos to get a sampling of the surgeon’s previous work. You might also consider searching for patient reviews on forums or chat boards.
Schedule a personal consultation
A successful plastic surgery outcome begins with a personal consultation that goes over your goals and expectations while allowing you the opportunity to evaluate the surgeon’s “bedside manner” and communication skills. It’s also the perfect chance to see the facility or surgery center where your procedure will take place.
Accreditation
Any surgical facility you’re seriously considering should be accredited by industry-recognized organizations like the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF), The Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC), and the Joint Commission.
Cost and Insurance
Ask what the surgery will cost and whether it’s covered by your insurance. You should also ask if the facility provides financing options, which Napa Solano Plastic Surgery is pleased to offer its patients.
Safety
You want to ensure you’re treated well and safely. Ask about the facility and the surgeon’s safety protocols and how well they’re equipped to handle potential complications.
Book A Plastic Surgery Consultation Today!
There’s generally no need to rush a plastic surgery procedure. Take your time and consider these factors before choosing a plastic surgeon. It will help ensure a successful outcome and the results you dreamed of.
We invite you to schedule an appointment with one of the skilled surgeons at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery today to learn more about our services.
Blog
Many plastic surgery procedures have become less invasive over the years. Yet, they’re still surgeries, and that means they can require days or weeks of recovery. Even relatively simple procedures with quicker recovery periods, such as liposuction and mini-facelifts, require time before you feel back to your usual self.
The cosmetic surgery doctors at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery want you to recover as smoothly as possible after your procedure. We’re here to answer any questions you might have about the post-surgery healing process and can help you understand the feel more at ease over:
- What to expect with wound healing.
- Emotional and psychological reactions you might experience after your procedure.
- Why it’s important to ask for support from family and friends as you heal.
Tips for a Successful Plastic Surgery Recovery
The plastic surgery recovery period is an essential part of the overall procedure. And we believe the more our patients know before cosmetic surgery, the better their recovery will be.
If you want to ensure a smooth and successful recovery, these tips will help you do just that.
Read the Pre-op Materials
Most plastic surgery procedures are now outpatient, so it’s critical for patients to actively participate in their recovery. You should receive printed or online information on what to expect pre, during, and post-op, and it’s a good idea to read about all the stages before your operation.
Follow Post-op Instructions to a “T.”
Any potential side effects are likely to occur immediately post-op. That makes it crucial to follow all your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, even if you’re not sure they’re necessary. To avoid slowing down or impeding recovery, you’ll receive specific instructions for things like:
- Caring for your incisions
- Managing pain
- Which activities to avoid
Get Plenty of Rest
It’s best to give your body the time it needs to fully heal. During the early stages of post-op, take it easy and avoid strenuous activities and exercise that might strain the treated area. Depending on your procedure, you might also need to take two or more days off from work.
Support Quicker Healing
It’s challenging, but the more patient you are during recovery, the smoother it will go.
- Ask for help when you need it.
- Manage discomfort or pain with prescribed or over-the-counter medications. Don’t try to “tough it out.”
- Keep the surgical area clean and dry to prevent infection and promote faster healing.
- Stay hydrated to help reduce swelling.
- Avoid sun exposure to decrease the risk of scarring.
Based on your doctor’s input, you can gradually return to normal activities. Just remember to gradually increase the intensity as you ease back into everyday life.
Attend Follow-up Appointments
Regular follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon are essential for monitoring your progress. They’re also a great time to address any concerns you might be having.
Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation Today!
A great tip for ensuring you have a smooth and successful recovery is working with the best plastic surgeons in Northern California. For nearly 40 years, the skilled doctors at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery have performed countless life-enhancing cosmetic surgery procedures in a safe and welcoming environment.
We invite you to schedule an appointment to learn more about our services.
Blog
Everyone has their unique beliefs about how they appear to other people. Our self-image reflects what we believe to be our intelligence, physical appearance, and personality traits. As most people know, how we see ourselves and how others see us are often vastly different.
Deciding to invest in plastic surgery is a highly personal decision that’s often driven by self-image. People hope it will help eliminate insecurities and expose their true, better selves—one that’s more confident inside and out.
But can cosmetic surgery truly lessen psychological issues or blocks associated with your appearance? The answer is more complicated than you might think, as plastic surgery can both:
- Boost confidence and improve self-image for people who are self-conscious about one or more physical characteristics.
- Result in body dysmorphia, where someone becomes overly critical of their appearance, leading to a negative body image.
The truth is cosmetic surgery and mental health are profoundly connected, and there are many things we tell our patients they should consider before choosing this often life-changing route.
The Psychological Complexity of Plastic Surgery
There’s been extensive research done on how plastic surgery affects people psychologically. While much of it concludes that cosmetic procedures improve a patient’s body image, experts disagree about their ultimate effect on self-esteem and state of mind. For instance, depression and anxiety are not uncommon complaints post-surgery.
Variables that come into play with plastic surgery success include:
- A general lack of understanding of mental health. Experts in the field have long struggled to define what it means to be “mentally healthy.” A person can appear remarkably stable yet still have one or more characteristics that negatively affect them, such as social phobias, anxiety, and body dysmorphia.
- Defining success. Some patients undergo plastic surgery and gain the self-confidence they hoped for. But what if they also end up experiencing negative emotions they didn’t have before the procedure?
- The surgery’s quality. Everyone’s seen examples of plastic surgery gone wrong. If a person is unhappy with the results of their procedure, it could significantly impact their self-esteem and happiness.
As to the relationship between attractiveness and happiness, our society tends to promote the idea that the prettier or more handsome someone is, the happier they are. And some research backs it up, primarily because people respond positively to those considered conventionally attractive. But most experts agree that being more attractive isn’t necessarily enough to boost mental health. That’s why it’s important to make the distinction between using plastic surgery to make someone attractive and making them feel more attractive.
Improving Your Self-Image With Cosmetic Surgery
Plastic surgery chosen for the right reasons can promote a strong and positive self-image. In fact, patients who have realistic expectations of the outcome are more often than not more self-confident, more productive in their work, and more comfortable in social situations.
Each patient’s circumstances are different, but understanding these basic psychological issues before opting for cosmetic surgery can help you decide if it’s the right choice for you.
Is It the Right Time?
Everyone experiences physical and mental stress in life. It’s vital to schedule your surgery at a point when you aren’t under exceptional levels of it. To decide if the time is right, your surgeon might ask questions about your current relationships and whether there any problems at work or home causing you undue stress.
The more emotionally healthy you are before surgery, the more likely you are to recover more quickly and be satisfied with the results.
Change is Difficult
Adjusting to a “new” you, particularly after a more extensive or dramatic procedure, can take considerable time. Until you’ve learned to accept the change in your appearance, your reflection could seem unfamiliar. That can be jarring, so you’ll need to give yourself the time and space to adapt.
Support is Essential
The more support the better, but just one supportive person can make a huge difference during your recovery, particularly while you wait for swelling and bruising to fade. Your support buddy will also be helpful when otherwise well-meaning people say things like, “You looked fine before” or “Why did you get plastic surgery?” As you recuperate and adjust, you’ll want to stay focused on why you decided cosmetic surgery was right for you.
Depression and Anxiety
While many people feel extremely happy and confident after plastic surgery, post-op depression and anxiety are common side effects of the procedure. Common feelings include regretting the decision, anxiety over what you’ll look like after the swelling goes down, and a heightened sensitivity to people’s comments. Your surgeon can help minimize the risk of this occurring by explaining what your recovery process entails and reminding you of your motivations for having the surgery performed.
If you suspect you’re experiencing an anxiety disorder or body dysmorphia, it can be extremely beneficial to talk to a mental health professional before undergoing plastic surgery. They can help you identify and manage these and other conditions and guide you in a healthier way of thinking and living.
How to Find the Best Plastic Surgeon
Plastic surgery changes your appearance, but it also changes how you see yourself. It’s essential for patients to understand that plastic surgery is not a cure for deep-seated emotional or psychological issues, so it shouldn’t be relied on to fix self-esteem problems.
Ultimately, the most successful cosmetic surgery procedures are the ones where patients have realistic expectations and find a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. A good plastic surgeon will:
- Fulfill your wishes without compromising your health or future happiness.
- Put your well-being first.
- Evaluate your current psychological state to ensure your procedure is a rewarding success.
- Ensure you aren’t having surgery due to outside pressures.
At Napa Solano Plastic Surgery, we know that cosmetic surgery is a personal journey. Our surgeons consider their patients to be equal partners in the process and share their goal of feeling more comfortable and confident in their bodies. They also take the time to talk about options, benefits, and risks, so patients feel confident in their choice of procedure. We believe this approach ensures our patients achieve the best possible care, faster recovery, and desired outcome.
To learn more about the cosmetic surgery procedures offered at Napa Solano Plastic Surgery or to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced and skilled surgeons, get in touch with us today.
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