Cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic plastic surgery, is a specialized aspect of plastic surgery that focuses on improving appearance. The pursuit of beauty is not new, but has been an important aspect of human civilization throughout history.
From the earliest times, men and women have desired to look their best, making use of the newest and most effective methods available at the time. Today, there are a wide variety of cosmetic procedures from which to choose, both surgical and non-surgical, that can help maintain, restore, and enhance overall physical appearance.
Cosmetic Treatment Options
The availability of effective treatment options at affordable prices allows men and women of all ages the opportunity to undergo individualized cosmetic treatments based on their personal desires and goals.
While some patients prefer the approach of minimally invasive techniques such as Botox injections and laser hair removal, other patients are willing to undergo more extensive procedures such as liposuction and breast augmentation for more dramatic results.
Trends in Cosmetic Surgery
Over 10 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the Pakistan in 2009, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) 2009 Statistics. This informative annual report reveals the current trends and popularity of cosmetic procedures.
The ASAPS found that patients are opting for non-invasive treatments over surgical procedures by a significant amount. Of the completed cosmetic procedures, 85% were for non-surgical treatments, such as cosmetic injectables and laser treatments. Surgical procedures, such as eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, and breast augmentations, are declining in popularity.
The Top Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures:
Botox Hyaluronic Acid (HA fillers include Juvederm and Restylane)
Laser Hair Removal
Microderma brasion Chemical Peel
Breast Augmentation
Liposuction
Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck)
Anesthesia Considerations Anesthesia
is used to control pain during surgery.
Without anesthesia, most types of cosmetic surgery would be too painful to withstand. The use of anesthesia is fairly routine and safe, but sometimes patients have undesirable reactions which cannot be predicted. The most common complication of anesthesia is nausea and vomiting, but some reactions can be fatal.
Since cosmetic surgery is elective surgery and not necessary, it is important for patients to be fully aware of the possible complications associated with anesthesia so they can make an informed decision. There are four types of anesthesia used for cosmetic surgery. Sometimes a combination of methods are used for the best results.
Your surgeon will recommend the best method of anesthesia based on your overall physical health, level of anxiety, and type of cosmetic procedure.
Local anesthesia – ointment, spray, or injection that prevents pain in a specific area; patient is awake and aware during surgery Sedation – medications that are administered into the body intravenously (through a vein) to prevent pain and anxiety; various levels of sedation, but generally patient is awake yet sleepy Regional anesthesia – medication that prevents pain signals when administered to nerves in a specific region; patient is awake but somewhat groggy General anesthesia – drugs are inhaled or injected into a vein to prevent pain; patient is put to sleep and not aware of surroundings; reserved for extensive medical procedures Choosing a Cosmetic Surgeon The doctor you choose to perform your cosmetic procedure should be given careful consideration as it can directly affect both your level of safety and treatment results.
When choosing a doctor to perform your cosmetic procedure, it is important to base your selection on qualifications and not merely on cost. Select a board-certified doctor, such as a plastic surgeon or dermatologist, who has received proper training and achieved sufficient experience in cosmetic surgery and cosmetic treatments.
A skilled and reputable doctor with the proper certifications may cost more, but it also improves the likelihood of having a positive outcome and reduces risk and rate of complications. In some cases, the specific procedure you are interested in having may determine the doctor you choose.
If you are considering a surgical procedure, you would want to consider a plastic surgeon. Because plastic surgeons have extensive training in anatomy and reconstructive techniques, they usually excel at cosmetic surgery.
Many patients assume that because the procedure is being performed for cosmetic reasons, the procedure does not need medical oversight. For most cosmetic procedures, this is simply not true. Even in the best of circumstances with the best of surgeons, the unexpected can happen.