Knowing the Myths Surrounding Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery to enhance one’s appearance is quickly becoming a popular option for people of all ages and sizes. Not everything you hear about cosmetic surgery however, is necessarily true. What are the common cosmetic surgery myths that you should watch out for?

Myth #1: Anyone who can pay can undergo a cosmetic surgery procedure.

Money is not the only requirement for you to be deemed fit for a cosmetic surgical procedure. Your doctor would have to first assess your fitness for a specific procedure. Depending on the surgical procedure of choice, your doctor will determine your fitness based on many different factors that may or may not include your body type, anatomical structure, age and some other physical conditions. More importantly however, your doctor will also look into your physical health and emotional or mental stability.

Myth #2: It doesn’t matter which surgeon you pick. They’re all the same.

There is no law barring general surgeons from performing a cosmetic surgery procedure. Although some general surgeons may do a good job, you would understandably be more at ease with one who is an expert in the procedure you will undergo. Pick a doctor who has considerable experience in the cosmetic surgery procedure of your choice and who is actually certified by a surgery board. Do not be ashamed to extensively interview several surgeons before settling on one. Check their facilities and ask and research about credentials.

Myth #3: Cosmetic surgery is the best way to lose weight.

Not all cosmetic surgery procedures are for overweight people. Liposuction in particular is a body toning procedure. An experienced surgeon will only allow you to undergo the procedure if you are close to your ideal weight and if you have limited localized fat. In most cases, a doctor will properly advice exercise and diet and not cosmetic surgery for weight loss.

Myth #4: You’ll get exactly what you expect through cosmetic surgery.

One other requirement to make you an ideal candidate for cosmetic surgery is that you should have realistic expectations. A surgical procedure to enhance your appearance can do just that but cannot make you perfect. In some cases like liposuction for cellulite removal, your condition may even worsen especially if you do not have elastic skin or if your doctor has assessed your condition incorrectly. At the beginning your doctor should be able to tell you what you can realistically expect.

Myth #5: Some procedures produce no scars.

It is true that there are minimally invasive procedures that will leave only small scars or very slight skin signs of surgery. In most cases however, the scars of surgery can only be cleverly hidden but not completely prevented or removed. Some people, owing to body or skin uniqueness do not heal as well as others. Some scars will therefore look worse in some people but not in others.

Myth #6: Cosmetic surgery can improve your social relationships.

It is true that enhancing your appearance can improve your confidence and even how people or loved ones treat you. There is no guarantee however that a surgical cosmetic procedure can tremendously improve all of your social relationships. Having bigger breasts, a narrower nose or lesser cellulite will not completely guarantee that you will be admired or loved more.