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.