Plastic surgery has its place, but at what cost?
Most people across the globe have thought about cosmetic surgery at one point. Breast enlargements, face lifts, Brazilian butt lifts (and breast reductions…the list goes on.
Plastic surgeons advise their patients of possible complications. But if they happen to you, are you prepared for the outcome? I found myself on the side of necrosis after I had a breast reduction two years ago.
Necrosis is when living tissue dies. It affected the way I viewed myself and caused me to have body dysmorphia, which occurs when a person becomes overly concerned about an aspect of their appearance.
Complications occur in 1% to 5% of plastic surgeries. The number can go up with more invasive surgeries like Brazilian butt lifts and breast reductions.
Doctors handle complications in different ways. A referral to wound care is common because wound vacs are used to aid in the healing of the open areas.
Some people may develop a reaction to the adhesive used to close the incisions. This happened to me, causing blisters to develop over every incision.
The doctor did not prepare me for the psychological effects of the surgery either.
If people knew how exhausting complications can be, they may not be as quick to jump down the plastic surgery rabbit hole.
A television show called “Botched” became popular, showing Hollywood surgeons fixing bad plastic surgeries. Even after the complications, the “Botched” people hop right into surgery.
Society may have something to do with that.
In the age of air brushed pictures being shoved down our throats, the societal norms of beauty have changed. Celebrities and companies can transform the way a person looks with the click of a mouse.
In 2011, Julia Roberts modeled for Lancôme in an anti-aging products campaign. The ad was banned in the United Kingdom for advertising unrealistic outcomes for people.
The Kardashian and Jenner clans have openly admitted to plastic surgery. Kylie Jenner has spoken out about how she is working to shift her views of what beauty should be. She said motherhood has changed her thoughts on the subject.
Society should be more accepting of the aging process. Celebrities like Meryl Streep, Cameron Diaz and Jamie Lee Curtis have openly spoken about aging naturally.
Companies need to be realistic in advertising what their products can do.
Taking a step away from social media can help. Not seeing airbrushed pictures every day may help someone struggling with their own feelings about themselves.
If you are determined to have plastic surgery, do your research and don’t look for bargains. Do not leave the country searching for these procedures to save a few dollars.
Make sure you are fully prepared for body changes and possible complications. Some people mourn their lost body parts.
Prepare your brain to understand you will look different, and you may not care for the results.
Research your plastic surgeon. Do not go into surgery lightly. Ask to see examples of their work.
Cosmetic surgery can be life-changing for some. Just make sure to do the legwork before you go under the knife.
