As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I have witnessed the increasing demand for cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures. These surgeries are no longer limited to the wealthy and famous, but are now accessible to a wider range of individuals. In this article, I will discuss the most common plastic surgery procedures and provide insight into the differences between cosmetic and plastic surgery. The most popular cosmetic surgeries include breast augmentation, liposuction, nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, tummy tuck, and facelifts. These procedures are considered purely elective and are performed to enhance or reshape parts of the body that are already functioning properly.
For example, a breast lift or breast augmentation can improve the appearance of the breasts, while liposuction can remove stubborn fat deposits. It's important to note that just because a procedure is classified as cosmetic does not mean it cannot be performed by a plastic surgeon. In fact, many procedures such as breast augmentation and rhinoplasty fall into both categories and can be performed by either a board-certified cosmetic surgeon or a board-certified plastic surgeon. One of the most common reasons for undergoing plastic surgery is breast reconstruction after a mastectomy due to breast cancer. Breast augmentation is also a popular procedure for purely cosmetic reasons. This surgery involves increasing the size, shape, or volume of the breasts.
Liposuction
, also known as suction-assisted lipectomy, is another popular cosmetic surgery.This procedure involves removing excess fat from the body through a thin tube connected to a vacuum. It's important to note that liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss and is typically used to target areas where fat is more persistent and resistant to diet and exercise. There are numerous physical defects and health reasons that may lead someone to opt for plastic or cosmetic surgery. These procedures can help improve self-confidence and overall quality of life. It's important to note that not all surgeons who perform cosmetic surgery are qualified to perform plastic surgery. To be considered a plastic surgeon, one must complete specific training in an accredited plastic surgery training program.
Additionally, more and more insurance companies are now covering medically necessary plastic surgeries, leading to an increase in the number of these procedures being performed. If you're considering plastic surgery, it's crucial to do your research and choose a board-certified surgeon with experience in the specific procedure you're interested in. Ask for referrals and don't be afraid to ask questions during your consultation. There are dozens of cosmetic and plastic surgery procedures available, whether for medical reasons, to correct a congenital deformity, or simply for aesthetic purposes. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the most common cosmetic procedures (both invasive and minimally invasive) include:
- Breast augmentation
- Liposuction
- Nose reshaping
- Eyelid surgery
- Tummy tuck
- Facelifts
However, it's important to remember that these procedures are not without risks. To minimize your chances of experiencing negative results, be sure to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. In recent years, there has been a sharp increase in the number of patients seeking to remove breast implants. This procedure has grown by almost 50% worldwide in the last four years. It's important to note that cosmetic surgeons have also studied medicine and completed their continuing education, but they have not received the necessary training to become plastic surgeons.
