Submitted by Twin City Plastic Surgery
Plastic surgery sometimes gets a negative reputation as being only for egocentric, self-absorbed people that obsess about their appearance. But the truth is that most people seeking cosmetic or plastic surgical procedures are normal, everyday people with realistic expectations. For the most part, they simply want to look their best.
As plastic and cosmetic surgical and non-surgical procedures continue to surge in popularity, we’d like to set the record straight on some of the other misconceptions that people may have.
Misconception #1: Plastic and cosmetic surgery is the same thing.
Cosmetic surgery is a subset of plastic surgery. They are similar in that the ultimate goal is to make a part (or parts) of the body better, but “better” in different ways. Cosmetic surgery is performed to make a part of the body more aesthetically pleasing. The treated body part already functions properly, so surgery focuses on enhancing appearance. Cosmetic surgery is usually elective and includes procedures such as breast enhancement, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, liposuction, BOTOX or dermal filler injections, or similar techniques.
Plastic surgery involves the reconstruction of a body part that has some functional defect due to congenital disorder, trauma, burns, or disease. It is reconstructive in nature — the ultimate goal is to restore function. Plastic surgery includes breast reconstruction, burn repair, hand surgery, and scar revision.
Some body parts may have procedures that fall within both specialties. For example, breast reduction is often cosmetic, but may fall under the category of plastic surgery if large breasts are causing medical problems such as back or neck pain. Breast reconstruction is always considered plastic surgery.
The training is distinct for each as well. Cosmetic surgery procedures are only a small portion of the surgical categories that a plastic surgeon trains to perform, while all of the training categories for a cosmetic surgeon are dedicated to procedures that enhance appearance rather than improve function. Sometimes, doctors who perform cosmetic surgical procedures are board certified in a different specialty such as gynecology or family medicine. You should always choose a surgeon who is board certified in plastic surgery.
Misconception #2: It’s only for women.
Although traditionally women have had the vast majority of procedures, men are hopping on the plastic surgery boat in increasing numbers. According to a report from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, there has been a 29 percent increase since 2000 in cosmetic procedures performed on men. More and more, men are becoming very comfortable with all sorts of plastic surgery procedures including rhinoplasties, liposuction, laser treatments, or even things like BOTOX and dermal fillers.
Misconception #3: You have to be older.
People often assume that you have to be a little bit older in order to justify getting plastic surgery done, but that’s just not the case. You should enjoy your body and feel confident in it at all stages of your life. So, if you are in your sixties or seventies and you want surgery, then great; but, if you are in your twenties and you want surgery, then that is equally as great.
According to many experts, it is becoming more common for younger people to undergo treatments as a preventative measure. In fact, a survey done by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery found that 72 percent of facial plastic surgeons saw an increase in cosmetic surgery or injectables in patients under 30. For example, BOTOX treatments can help to slow down or prevent worry lines and furrows from forming in the first place, thus eliminating the need for more extensive “repair” procedures later on.
Misconception #4: It’s only for rich people.
Statistics reveal that most patients are middle class with a median income of about $80,000. Because cosmetic procedures are elective in nature, they use their own income to pay for the surgery. Twin City Plastic Surgery offers financing options for most procedures. Many of the less invasive procedures such as BOTOX, dermal filler injections, or laser treatments are about the same cost as a cut and color at a hair salon.
Improvements in body image and appearance provide greater satisfaction, higher self-esteem, and improved quality of life. People simply feel better and have more confidence when they are happy with how they look.
The board-certified plastic surgeons at Twin City Plastic Surgery bring you the latest procedures and newest technologies, along with the attentive care and comfort you deserve. For more information on any procedure, you may contact Dr. Laura Randolph — 309-664-6222; Dr. Chad Tattini — 309-664-1007; or Dr. Paige Holt — 309-664-4444 at Twin City Plastic Surgery or www.twincityplasticsurgery.com. Their office is located at 2502 E. Empire in Bloomington.