Cosmetic surgery is a booming industry today with over 12 million cosmetic surgeries being performed each year in the United States alone. It is often touted as the next best thing to the elixir of life if not the elixir itself! Advertisements with “before and after” photographs showcase people in their 40’s with crows feet and wrinkles.


The “after” photographs show them looking like they did on their 18th birthday! While there is no doubt that cosmetic surgery can definitely diminish aging signs and unwanted blemishes, many of these advertisements are doctored to suit the purpose. So what exactly is cosmetic surgery and is it different from plastic surgery; and more importantly what are the risks involved?




Plastic surgery involves the correction of skin tissue for reconstructive or aesthetic value. Cosmetic surgery is a part of cosmetic surgery that involves procedures aimed at improving the individual’s appearance.

Some of the most common cosmetic surgeries are:

• Liposuction – The removal of fat from various parts of the body
• Breast augmentation – To change the shape and/or size of the breasts
• Eyelid surgery –  To reshape the eyelids
• Abdominoplasty – Commonly known as a “tummy tuck”, this surgery is used to reshape the abdomen.

Discuss the process in depth with your doctor as cosmetic surgery is an invasive procedure. Make sure that you understand all the possible implications before you decide on going ahead. If you decide to go ahead with your surgery, make sure that you only go to a reputed doctor who is specifically experienced in the surgery that you wish to undergo. In addition to this, ensure that the hospital or clinic is well-known and meets the required standards. All of this will go a long way in reducing your risk of having an adverse outcome. Keep in mind that even if the doctor is experienced, you may still react badly to the procedure. Some of the possible negative reactions are as follows:

• Skin Breakdown – This is the term for the separation of healthy skin and is generally brought on by poor circulation. People with weight problems are often at an elevated risk.
• Hematoma – This is the accumulation of blood beneath the area that has been operated on. This can lead to extreme swelling in the area along with a loss of blood. The blood will need to be removed and there is a higher risk of scarring.
• Infection – This is one of the most common problems associated with any type of plastic surgery. People with lower immunity levels are at a higher risk.

In addition to this, the surgery may cause the skin to become dimpled and uneven. This would require one or more surgeries to correct and often results in scarring. Do not overlook the risks of cosmetic surgery as complications from the anesthesia used or abnormal bleeding results in death in approximately one to two per cent of some procedures.    

References:

1. Fraser, Suzanne (2003). Cosmetic surgery, gender and culture. Palgrave.
2. Lock, Stephen etc. (2001). The Oxford Illustrated Companion to Medicine. USA: Oxford University Press.