Introduction & Background

Cosmetic surgery refers to medical procedures designed to improve the appearance of a person. This form of surgery can be elective or reconstructive and focuses on enhancing aesthetic outcomes, unlike procedures done for medical necessity. Cosmetic surgery has grown significantly in popularity over the past few decades, driven by societal trends toward beauty, self-esteem, and the desire for enhanced physical appearance.

The history of cosmetic surgery dates back to ancient civilizations. Techniques for reconstructing features of the face, especially for those injured in warfare, were practiced in ancient India, Egypt, and Greece. However, it wasn’t until the early 20th century that modern cosmetic surgery began to take form, with pioneers like Sushruta in India and later advancements in Europe and the United States during the 1900s. Today, cosmetic surgery covers a broad range of procedures from facelifts to breast augmentations and non-surgical options like Botox.

Causes of Cosmetic Surgery

The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery can arise from various causes, often deeply rooted in a person’s emotional and psychological state. Some of the leading causes include:

1. Aesthetic Desire: Many individuals seek cosmetic surgery purely to enhance their appearance according to their personal standards.
2. Aging: As people age, they may look for ways to reverse visible signs of aging, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots.
3. Trauma or Injury: Cosmetic surgery often helps in reconstructing body parts after injury or trauma, whether from accidents, burns, or other incidents.
4. Congenital Issues: Birth defects or physical anomalies, such as cleft lips or ears that protrude, can also be corrected using cosmetic surgery.
5. Psychological Factors: In some cases, people who suffer from body dysmorphic disorder or low self-esteem may seek cosmetic surgery to alter their physical appearance, believing that it will improve their self-worth.
6. Cultural and Social Influence: Societal standards of beauty, especially influenced by celebrities and media, can make individuals feel pressured to undergo cosmetic procedures to fit these ideals.

Indications of Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is indicated for individuals who are in good health, have realistic expectations, and desire improvements to their appearance. Common indications include:

1. Facial Rejuvenation: For patients seeking to eliminate the signs of aging like sagging skin, wrinkles, and folds.
2. Body Contouring: Procedures like liposuction or tummy tucks are done to reshape the body, often after significant weight loss or to enhance contours.
3. Breast Augmentation or Reduction: These surgeries are used for enhancing or reducing breast size to better suit an individual’s body proportions or personal preferences.
4. Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery): Indicated for people wanting to reshape or resize their nose for aesthetic reasons or to correct breathing problems.
5. Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Helps improve the appearance of drooping eyelids, or it can correct vision problems caused by excess skin.
6. Hair Restoration: Commonly used to treat hair loss, hair transplant surgeries can restore hairline density.

Symptoms That May Indicate the Need for Cosmetic Surgery

Symptoms that suggest a person might consider cosmetic surgery can vary depending on the procedure. Some common reasons include:

1. Visible Signs of Aging: Wrinkles, sagging skin, and age spots can prompt people to consider facelifts, chemical peels, or Botox.
2. Disproportionate Body Shape: Areas of the body such as a large abdomen or excessive fat on the thighs or hips may lead someone to consider liposuction or tummy tuck surgery.
3. Breast or Chest Concerns: Some individuals may have disproportionate breast size (either too large or too small) that makes them self-conscious.
4. Facial Symmetry Concerns: Individuals may seek corrective surgery for facial features that seem disproportionate to the rest of their face, such as the nose or chin.

Prevention Strategies

While cosmetic surgery is often elective, certain lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the need for some procedures:

1. Sun Protection: Regularly using sunscreen and wearing hats or protective clothing can help prevent premature aging and skin damage that often leads to cosmetic procedures.
2. Healthy Lifestyle Choices: A balanced diet, regular exercise, and proper hydration can delay the aging process and help in maintaining a good body shape.
3. Stress Management: Chronic stress accelerates aging, so finding ways to manage stress can have positive effects on one’s appearance.
4. Skincare Regimens: Consistent skincare routines with anti-aging creams or natural remedies can improve skin health and reduce the need for invasive procedures later on.

Myths and Facts About Cosmetic Surgery

Misconceptions about cosmetic surgery are common. Here are some myths and the truths behind them:

• Myth 1: Cosmetic surgery is only for the rich and famous.
  • Fact: Cosmetic surgery is becoming more affordable and accessible to a wide range of people, and financing options are available.
• Myth 2: Cosmetic surgery is always risky and dangerous.
  • Fact: When performed by a board-certified, experienced surgeon, cosmetic surgery can be quite safe. However, as with any surgery, risks exist.
• Myth 3: Cosmetic surgery results are permanent.
  • Fact: While some results may last for many years, others (such as Botox) are temporary and require maintenance.
• Myth 4: Cosmetic surgery is only for women.
  • Fact: Cosmetic surgery is becoming increasingly popular among men, especially for procedures like liposuction, facelifts, and rhinoplasty.

Treatments and Therapy for Cosmetic Surgery

Medication-Based Treatments

Before surgery, some medications may be prescribed to prepare for the procedure, alleviate anxiety, or help with the healing process. Common medications include:

1. Pain Relief: Opioids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen, or acetaminophen may be used after surgery to manage pain.
2. Antibiotics: Often prescribed to prevent infection following surgery.
3. Steroid Injections: Sometimes used to reduce swelling or improve healing after surgery.

Surgical Treatments

The most common cosmetic surgeries include:

1. Facelifts: To tighten and smooth the skin of the face and neck.
2. Rhinoplasty: Surgical reshaping of the nose.
3. Breast Augmentation: Implants or fat transfer to increase breast size.
4. Liposuction: Removal of excess fat.
5. Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty): Removal of excess skin and fat from the abdomen area.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Recovery post-surgery is crucial and often involves physical therapy to restore movement or reduce discomfort. Rehabilitation may include:

1. Gentle exercises to restore mobility after a procedure like tummy tuck or liposuction.
2. Massage therapy to improve circulation and decrease swelling.

Lifestyle and Behavioral Interventions

Maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can complement surgical results. Counseling may be recommended for individuals who struggle with body image or post-surgery adjustment.

Alternative and Complementary Medicine

Some patients may turn to alternative therapies like acupuncture or herbal treatments for post-surgery care, though these should be used with caution and under a physician’s advice.

Psychotherapy and Counseling

Cosmetic surgery often requires psychological support, particularly when dealing with body image issues. Pre-surgical counseling is recommended to assess whether the patient has realistic expectations.

Top 20 FAQs on Cosmetic Surgery with Answers

1. What is cosmetic surgery?
   • Answer: Cosmetic surgery refers to surgical procedures aimed at enhancing or improving the appearance of a person. Unlike reconstructive surgery, which focuses on restoring function or correcting deformities, cosmetic surgery is elective and primarily concerned with aesthetics.
2. How do I know if I’m a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
   • Answer: A good candidate for cosmetic surgery is someone who is in overall good health, has realistic expectations, and understands the risks and benefits. They should also be psychologically stable and motivated for aesthetic improvement rather than external pressure.
3. What is the recovery time for cosmetic surgery?
   • Answer: Recovery time varies depending on the procedure. For minor surgeries like Botox or lip fillers, recovery can take a few days. For major surgeries like facelifts or tummy tucks, recovery may take several weeks to a few months, with swelling and bruising gradually subsiding.
4. Are the results of cosmetic surgery permanent?
   • Answer: While some results are long-lasting, they may not be permanent. For example, while a facelift can last 5-10 years, the natural aging process continues, and maintenance may be required. Non-surgical procedures like Botox or dermal fillers are temporary and need repeat treatments.
5. What is the cost of cosmetic surgery?
   • Answer: The cost of cosmetic surgery depends on the type of procedure, the surgeon’s experience, and geographic location. For instance, breast augmentation can range from $5,000 to $10,000, while liposuction or facelifts can cost upwards of $8,000-$12,000.
6. Is cosmetic surgery safe?
   • Answer: Cosmetic surgery is generally safe when performed by a qualified, experienced, and board-certified surgeon. However, as with any surgical procedure, there are risks such as infection, complications from anesthesia, or unsatisfactory results.
7. How long does it take to see the results of surgery?
   • Answer: Results vary by procedure. Some procedures, like Botox, show immediate results, while others, like a tummy tuck or facelift, may take weeks to months to reveal the final results due to swelling and bruising.
8. How do I choose the right surgeon?
   • Answer: When choosing a surgeon, look for board certification, relevant experience in the specific procedure you want, positive patient reviews, and good communication. It is also important to have a consultation to ensure the surgeon understands your expectations and concerns.
9. What are the risks of cosmetic surgery?
   • Answer: Risks can include infection, scarring, blood clots, adverse reactions to anesthesia, unsatisfactory results, or complications related to healing. The risks vary depending on the procedure and the patient’s overall health.
10. Can I combine multiple cosmetic surgeries?
    • Answer: Yes, many people opt to combine procedures like a facelift and eyelid surgery, or liposuction with breast augmentation. However, combining surgeries increases the complexity and recovery time, so it’s essential to consult with your surgeon about the risks and benefits.
11. What should I expect during a consultation?
    • Answer: During a consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your medical history, discuss your goals, and review potential risks and benefits. You’ll also be asked about your expectations, and the surgeon may take photographs for pre-operative planning.
12. Is cosmetic surgery covered by insurance?
    • Answer: Cosmetic surgery is typically not covered by insurance as it is considered elective. However, if the surgery is medically necessary (e.g., reconstructive surgery after an accident), it may be covered.
13. What are the most popular types of cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: The most popular types of cosmetic surgery include breast augmentation, liposuction, tummy tuck, rhinoplasty, eyelid surgery, facelifts, and Botox injections.
14. Can cosmetic surgery fix imperfections caused by aging?
    • Answer: Yes, many cosmetic procedures target aging signs like sagging skin, wrinkles, and volume loss. Facelifts, brow lifts, eyelid surgery, and non-surgical treatments like Botox are commonly used to address aging concerns.
15. What age should I be for cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: There’s no exact age for cosmetic surgery, but most patients are between 30 and 60 years old. Younger patients often seek procedures like rhinoplasty or breast augmentation, while older patients may consider facelifts or eyelid surgery.
16. Are there non-surgical alternatives to cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: Yes, there are several non-surgical alternatives, including Botox, dermal fillers, chemical peels, laser treatments, and microneedling. These treatments can address skin aging, wrinkles, and volume loss without the need for invasive surgery.
17. Will cosmetic surgery improve my self-esteem?
    • Answer: Cosmetic surgery can enhance physical appearance and, for many people, boost self-esteem and confidence. However, it is important to have realistic expectations and understand that surgery won’t solve deeper emotional or psychological issues.
18. How do I prepare for cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: Preparation involves a physical examination, stopping certain medications like blood thinners, avoiding smoking, and arranging for post-surgery care. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions depending on the procedure you’re having.
19. Can men undergo cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: Yes, cosmetic surgery is increasingly popular among men. Men often seek procedures like rhinoplasty, liposuction, hair restoration, or facelifts to improve their appearance and boost confidence.
20. What can I do to maintain the results of cosmetic surgery?
    • Answer: Maintaining the results of cosmetic surgery involves healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, protecting your skin from the sun, and avoiding smoking. Additionally, some procedures may require follow-up treatments to preserve results.

Conclusion

Cosmetic surgery offers individuals the opportunity to enhance their physical appearance and, in many cases, improve their self-esteem. However, it is important to approach cosmetic surgery with careful thought, ensuring that expectations are realistic and health considerations are taken into account. With advancements in technology and technique, cosmetic surgery continues to evolve, providing more safe and effective options for those who seek it.

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Regulators have suspended a Medicine Hat family physician following a pair of botched cosmetic procedures.

Dr. Adriaan Kriel has been barred from practising medicine as of Aug. 10 after unprofessionally performing an eyelid revision and a liposuction that resulted in poor outcomes for two women.

A tribunal of the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta also found Kriel, a family doctor “with an interest in cosmetic procedures,” conducted 610 of the operations in his office, which was an unaccredited and unapproved setting, from 2005 to 2019.

“Dr. Kriel was accused of displaying a lack of skill and judgment in his medical practice after performing a cosmetic blepharoplasty (eyelid revision surgery) and liposuction on two patients. Both patients experienced complications, which Dr. Kriel failed to treat appropriately,” the college said in a news release.

“He performed these procedures over a number of years in unaccredited, non-hospital surgical facilities.”

A month after a blepharoplasty performed in June 2018, a specialist examined Kriel’s patient and found she “presented with a generalized deformed appearance, an inability to completely close her eyes, generalized discomfort, facial swelling and mildly blurred vision.”

Another specialist noted that six months after an October 2018 liposuction, the patient “presented with a significant number blotchy scars, several areas of redness and a buried suture beneath her skin,” stated the tribunal decision.

“Protruding from several of the scars was some brown material. (The patient) subsequently underwent four operations with the specialist to have at least 12 scars revised by excising the scars.”

The tribunal also concluded Kriel failed to adequately address the surgeries’ complications and had inaccurately reported to the CPSA that he had stopped performing blepharoplasties.

But they also noted the physician has generally served his communities well for many years, that he hadn’t been previously disciplined and he fully accepted responsibility for his actions.

Kriel has been ordered to pay the $19,252 cost of the investigation into his case and its hearing, and that he provide the CPSA written assurance he will not perform any procedure that must be provided in an accredited facility.

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A January 24 article from Refinery29 looks at trends in plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures that people will be discussing in 2020. It also reports on a well-documented dramatic and ongoing increase over the last 20 years in terms of cosmetic and surgical procedures. Dr. Jazayeri says that his patients are increasingly knowledgeable and are asking about a number of both traditional plastic surgeries and very minimally invasive injection-based procedures. The most popular of these include:

1. Botox Treatments – Botox was approved by the FDA in 2006 and is now easily the best-known injection-based treatment; today. It may be among the most discussed procedures of any type. It’s easy to see why, says Dr. Jazayeri, as it’s proven effective for fighting wrinkles and creating a more youthful appearance. It may also prevent wrinkling before it happens in some cases, he notes. The procedures can typically be performed in a very short period such as a long lunch break. Botox results are temporary but can be maintained with periodic treatments, says the plastic surgeon.

2. Facelifts – More than a century before Botox came on the scene, facelifts were being successfully performed around the world. Of course, over time, the plastic surgery known medically as rhytidectomy has been refined and improved to the point where it’s never been safer or more effective, says Dr. Jazayeri. As the name implies, facelifts remove excess facial skin to create a tighter and fresher appearance. The plastic surgeon notes that patients are typically delighted by their long term results. Moreover, while a facelift can last indefinitely, they can sometimes be improved with complementary techniques including Botox and other injectables such as facial fillers, says the plastic surgeon.

3. Rhinoplasty – Known more familiarly as a nose job, Dr. Jazayeri notes that rhinoplasty remains by far one of the most popular procedures for both women and men. Aside from other factors, it is not always simply cosmetic. Individuals often obtain rhinoplasty to correct such issues as a deviated septum while also making the shape of their nose more to their liking, says the plastic surgeon.

4. Non-Surgical Nose Job – Though much less well known than Botox, traditional rhinoplasty also has an injectable-based analog, says Dr. Jazayeri. During a non-surgical nose job, he says that he can change the shape of the nose using injections of Restylane, a widely used facial filler. As with Botox, the result can be dramatic and can be maintained over time with repeat treatments.

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As always, Wendy Williams is keeping it real when it comes to her cosmetic procedures.

On Wednesday’s episode of her Fox talk show, the 55-year-old star went as far as showing close-up, graphic footage of her most recent procedure — Botox injections in her jawline — much to the surprise of audience members.

“This morning I got here at 6:30 for a little breakfast procedure,” she said at the start of the segment. “Roll the tape!”

The talk show host said the result of the backstage operation was a sharpened jawline and “a little cheekbone from the back.” She walked onstage to tape her live show just a few hours later.

“I feel like I’m 35,” she said of the quick nip and tuck.

“Look, my doctor is in the building right now and I’ve been dealing with her for more years than this show was invented,” the notoriously candid star said, advising her audience: “If you see something, do something. Don’t just assume that your skin don’t crack.”

“My doctor [Dr. Marion Shapiro] is the bee’s knees. I know you look at the TV, you’re like, ‘Okay what the hell is Wendy doing? She talks about the tummy tuck.’ But that’s not Marion,” Williams explained. That’s years ago.”

The talk show host then revealed that she won’t be getting any more plastic surgery from the neck down. Aside from a breast reduction, which she says she’ll get when she’s ready — “but right now, I still like them.”

Williams continued, “I’ve never gotten a face lift. And you know what, if you start staving off at an early time, you won’t need a face lift!”

“I go to good old Marian like once every three months and I say, ‘Look i’ve been staring in the magnifying thing.’ And then she stares right back,” she said. “She’s smart. She’s stylish. She’s very very easy on the eyes…And I don’t mind sharing with you.”

The star admitted the facial procedures she gets aren’t cheap, but told the audience: “Well neither was your Gucci bag so why don’t you just lay off the bags and the boots and stuff and spend on yourself,” she told the audience.

Towards the end of Wednesday’s episode, Williams brought Shapiro onstage to perform some of her most innovative procedures and treatments (including endymed skin tightening, an infinity thread lift and a three-day body glow) on a few volunteers in front of the live audience.

“For over a decade, you’ve never done me wrong,” Williams told Shapiro.

Williams has long been candid about her cosmetic and plastic surgeries, telling fans and viewers that she got liposuction and a tummy tuck and breast implants more than two decades ago.

In 2015, she said on her show that she lost 50 pounds in three years. 

“I no longer believe in fad diets, crash diets. I don’t believe in diet pills,” the host said. “I don’t want my heart to race and pop out of my chest. Yes, I did have a jump-start because years ago I did get the liposuction and a tummy tuck, but I have to say that, if there is a poster child for plastic surgery and the jump-off to a new lifestyle, it would be me.”

“Of all the crazy diets I’ve been on, none have ever been as effective as [saying to myself], ‘Just push back, fatso. Just stop eating so much,’ ” she shared, adding, “And I don’t love food as much as I used to.”

“Slow and steady is the name of the game,” she advised her viewers. “It’s not going to happen overnight.”

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Those who follow Sierra Skye on Instagram are used to seeing her largely unaltered face, as it seems like the model prefers to post photos in bikinis and other more casual attire. This means that her fans were in for a surprise on Wednesday when the American model took to the popular social media platform to share a snapshot in which she looks almost unrecognizable. That is probably because Sierra was using the post to promote the services of a clinic that offers weight loss and anti-aging procedures.

In the photo, Sierra is sitting outside as she rocks face full of makeup, which consists of a generous layer of eyeliner and shadow, in addition to uber long lashes — possibly extensions. The model’s face is heavily contoured, with golden bronzer on her cheeks and forehead. She also has on a lipliner, which makes her lips extra plump and full.

It is unclear whether Sierra had any procedures done prior to having this photo captured, but the model tagged the Instagram page for DoctorFatOff By MDS, a medical spa with locations in Brea, Woodland Hills, and Redondo Beach, California, that offers non-invasive fat removal and anti-aging cosmetic procedures, like Botox and Juvederm, according to its own website.

Aside from her different facial look, Sierra is wearing her blond ombre hair pulled up high in a tight ponytail in which a strand of her own hair is wrapped around. She is rocking a black lace top featuring an underwire with adjustable straps that go over her shoulders, while the bodice of the top consists of see-through lace, which leaves her slender midsection fully on display.

Sierra teamed her top with a pair of sophisticated black pants that sit just above her bellybutton, helping accentuate her itty bitty waist. Meanwhile, the model completed her look with a pair of thick gold hoop earrings.

If the comments section under her photo is to be believed, her new look was highly approved by her fans. As of the time of this writing, the post — which Sierra shared with her 4 million Instagram followers — had garnered more than 48,000 likes and upwards of 470 comments within an hour of being posted. Users of the social media app used the opportunity to praise her beauty, and share their thoughts on her new look.

“You are naturally beautiful and breathtaking when glammed up,” one user wrote.

“Literally perfect,” another chimed in, trailing the comment with a series of heart eyes emoji.

“Very beautiful and classy woman,” a third fan raved.

For the most part, Sierra uses her Instagram to share bikini photos of herself. As recently as Tuesday, the model posted a snapshot in which she did just that, flaunting her enviable physique, as The Inquisitr reported.

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