Mythbusting: Getting to the truth about cosmetic surgery
May 20, 2014, 4:18 am
Do you know fact from fiction when it comes to cosmetic surgery? Despite cosmetic surgery’s long history and ever-growing body of accessible information, many myths about cosmetic surgery continue to persist. Can you separate fact from fiction in regards to cosmetic surgery? Read on to find out!
Myth #1: People who have cosmetic surgery only care about how they look
Truth: While many individuals undergo cosmetic surgery to look better, the vast majority make additional considerations when choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery. More than 85 percent of cosmetic surgery patients already have realistic expectations for the results of their surgery, and many aren’t looking to make dramatic physical changes. Instead, they often want to smooth, refresh, and refine their appearances, and want to improve their overall well-being. In fact, many cite the biggest benefits of cosmetic surgery as feeling healthier overall, reducing anxiety, and experiencing a boost in self-esteem.
Myth #2: Cosmetic surgery results in visible, ugly scarring
Truth: Most scars from cosmetic surgery are well hidden in either the natural contours of the body, under the hairline, and in places typically hidden by undergarments. In fact, cosmetic surgery techniques are advancing every day, which translates to fewer, smaller, and less visible scars for patients. Scars from breast augmentation are often hidden in the armpit, in the crease below the breast, or at the edge of the areola, and often blend right into the skin. Scars from procedures such as a facelift are also well camouflaged under the hairline. And, tummy tuck scars are hidden below the bikini line. For those who already have visible scars, there are a number of skin treatments available that can reduce the visibility of scarring.
Myth #3: Who needs diet and exercise when I can just get liposuction?
Truth: While liposuction is fantastic at refining and contouring areas of the body, the procedure isn’t a substitute for healthy diet and exercise, and is not a weight-loss substitute. Liposuction is ideal for those who are already near their ideal weight, and is a compliment to weight loss, not a substitute. Those who undergo liposuction are encouraged to continue exercising regularly — as the combination of liposuction and regular exercise has been shown to prevent fat from developing across the abdomen.
Myth #4: Cosmetic surgery is only for women
Truth #4: While cosmetic surgery may have a reputation as being for women only, in reality, men can benefit just as much from cosmetic procedures. In fact, over the last 16 years, the number of men seeking cosmetic procedures has risen by more than 270 percent! Many men are finding significant benefits in procedures such as liposuction and Botox® injections.
Myth #5: Cosmetic surgery isn’t safe
Truth #5: The United States is one of the safest places is in the world to have cosmetic surgery thanks to a number of stringent regulations: including those that require surgeons to have substantial training and experience, those about the safety of tools and materials, and those that outline standards for surgery facilities. All surgeries carry risks, but procedures performed in the United States have an exceptionally high level of safety. If you are considering traveling abroad for surgery, think again! Staying close to home has many benefits, both for your emotional health and for your safety.
If you have been considering cosmetic surgery, call Kansas City Surgical Arts today at (816) 286-4126 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Hlavacek. It is our goal for patients to be well informed about their surgical options, to understand fact over fiction, and to be able to move forward in their cosmetic surgery journey with confidence.
