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The science of plastics and aesthetics surgery has evolved significantly. Unlike common opinion, plastic surgery is not limited to the enhancement of one’s appearance; it is also an important therapeutic tool to recover from trauma and accidents. However, the comprehensiveness of this speciality is yet unknown to many and it has several misconceptions associated with it.
Dr Rajat Gupta, Plastics & Aesthetics Centre, CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, says, “While some understand it with the literal meaning of ‘plastic’, others have negative assumptions about it. The original meaning of plastic comes from the Greek word ‘to mold’. The surgical technique focuses on reconstruction to gain normalcy or to enhance the normal, using some cosmetic elements in the procedure.”
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That being said, enhancement through plastic surgery is just one aspect of the whole procedure. Surgeries like reconstructive surgery, trauma surgery, and burn surgery require rehabilitation for the patient, which further involves post-cosmetic surgery care, exercises, strict maintenance, and other instructions that a patient must follow. Prospective patients need to understand the pros and cons to set realistic expectations regardless of the type of surgery. Dr Gupta debunks several false notions about plastic surgeries here.
- Plastic Surgery And Cosmetic Surgery Are The Same
People synonymously use plastic and cosmetic surgery, but they are two different medical procedures. While plastic surgery is the umbrella term, cosmetic surgery is a branch of plastic surgery. Plastic surgery involves a wide range of reconstructive and cosmetic surgeries. Cosmetic surgery is generally for improving the appearance and boosting self-esteem.
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- Plastic Surgery Leaves Scars
Going under surgery involves sharp medical equipment like knives, but non-surgical procedures are also available. The possibility of scars prevailing after plastic surgery depends on the type of surgery. Since scars are inevitable in any surgical procedure, a skilled plastic surgeon completes the process with minimum scars that disappear in a few months or hides the scar in an existing skin crease. But some physical evidence might always be present.
- Plastic Surgery Is A One-time Procedure
Undergoing plastic surgery can be a tough decision, but it is not permanent and depends on factors like age, aftercare, surgeon, and the type of plastic surgery. In addition, every procedure has different longevity. For instance, non-surgical procedures like face fillers fade in a few months, while a rhinoplasty stays forever.
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- Plastic Surgery Is Only For Women
Everyone desires to look better, including men. With the rise in new media and expansion of online space, there has been a massive culture shift with more and more men being concerned about their appearance. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), the trend for plastic surgery among men is increasing. Some popular plastic surgeries for men are liposuction, botox, facelift, eyelid surgery, nose job, and male breast reduction. These non-invasive techniques are cost-effective and less time-consuming, giving men the chance of reformation without much pain.
- Plastic Surgery Is Only For Enhancing Beauty
This is one of the most common misconceptions about plastic surgery due to a lack of awareness. Plastic surgery is not only for celebrities to look younger or to rewind the ageing process. Plastic surgery can be done for several reasons and in varied situations. In fact, people undergo plastic surgery due to health issues like birth abnormalities, burns, serious injuries, finger replantation, removal of tumour, etc. It can be considered a boon to victims of acid attacks, helping in pain management and boosting self-confidence.
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- Recovery From Plastic Surgery Is Painful
The pain during recovery from plastic surgery depends on the type of surgical procedure and the part on which it was performed. Your recovery time might vary depending upon several factors; for example, there can be mild risks if you are a smoker, older, or overweight. The amount of pain one goes through before and after plastic surgery is different for each individual and depends on ability to bear pain, past experiences, type of surgery, gender and age. Recovery from plastic surgery should not be painful, but you should always consult your doctor to discuss the nuances.
- Plastic Surgery Is Expensive
For many, plastic surgery can be a thing on the bucket list with the misconception that it demands a whole lot of money. But the fact is that achieving desired looks through a non-surgical procedure like injections (for Botox, Dysport, and Xeomin), chemical peels (outer layer of skin), Microdermabrasion (for sun damage), Thermage (saggy skin), Non-ablative lasers (facial skin), cosmetic fillers, and other treatments is cost effective and lasts longer than other average methods. However, non-surgical methods might leave skin reactions on some people, so consider the possibilities and be prepared. Talk to your plastic surgery expert.
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In conclusion, Dr Gupta says that when it comes to plastic surgery, there are many misconceptions in society, and people have difficulty accepting the facts. However, he adds that due to the discourse on ‘self-care’ and increasing acceptability, people are reaching out to avail procedures that complement their health and beauty goals. For many, plastic surgery is a way towards body positivity and recovery from congenital and acquired deformities of the face or body. If you are interested or planning to undergo any plastic surgery, it is best to take a doctor’s consultation and make an informed decision.
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