Usually when you read about or hear something in the news that involves cosmetic surgery it is either extraordinarily good or extraordinarily bad. Yet millions of people undergo procedures every year. They are the average Joes, the girls next door, they aren’t rich or famous.
And that is where the truth about cosmetic surgery lies – in the regular people who just want to look and feel better about themselves.
In all that hype, here are the things that aren’t usually discussed about cosmetic surgery.
Secret 1: Many cosmetic procedures don’t last forever.
Even the costliest procedures have a shelf life. For instance, a face lift lasts about 8 to 10 years. Some minor procedures don’t last a year while others are good for around a year and a half or more.
There are several factors at play here. While the skill of the surgeon is of course important, much rests on the patient. The condition of their skin, genetics, lifestyle, personal habits, general health, and how well they care for their skin all make a huge difference in the outcome as well as the longevity of the results.
The area that received the work is also integral to how long the results last. The lower part of the face has less bone and tends to be fleshier. There isn’t much for the skin to hang on to, so it just hangs.
Some procedures require minor surgery or supplemental fillers to “touch up” your work. However, some procedures require a complete repeat to maintain the initial results.
Secret 2: The discomfort level of a procedure varies from person to person due to a variety of factors.
Different people have different pain thresholds. A procedure that has one person in tears doesn’t even register to another. Gender, genetics, and stress level are significant contributors to a person’s sensitivity to pain.
What’s more, anxiety about the possibility of experiencing pain can actually increase the pain sensation.
If you have a low pain threshold the first thing you need to do is discuss it with your doctor prior to the procedure. Develop a strategy for dealing with the stress of the situation and explore any additional measures that your doctor can provide that will help you manage the pain and the stress more effectively.
On your own, find ways to deal with the anxiety of pain anticipation. Meditation, deep breathing, and calming music can help decrease your anxiety thus lessening your pain.
Secret 3: The lowest price isn’t always the best option.
Everyone loves a bargain, but remember, you get what you pay for. Sometimes a deal isn’t really all that great, especially when it comes to cosmetic surgery. Look for high quality value, not cheap. Getting the most value for your money may not necessarily be the cheapest option, but the results tend to be much more favorable.
Think of it this way. Medical procedures require a lot of components that cost money. Equipment, surgery space, medications, and the implements of the procedure, be it implants or Botox or something else, all cost money. So, when the cost of the procedure is cheap, where did they cut corners in order to be able to turn a profit? More likely than not, several areas took a hit and those “savings” will be passed on to you – in more ways than one. That bargain basement Botox treatment doesn’t look so appealing now, does it? Think quality first.
Secret 4: The number of men getting cosmetic surgery is larger than you may think.
While it’s true that men don’t have the same societal pressures about aging that women do, many still undergo procedures to enhance their appearance. Getting rid of wrinkles or losing the turkey wattle are common procedures for men.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, male cosmetic surgery is on the rise with a 29% increase from 2000 to 2019. In 2018, men underwent more than 1.3 million cosmetic procedures.
Secret 5: A good portion of the recovery process depends on the patient.
Follow your doctor’s orders. How often have you heard that?
It’s very good advice, especially when you are recovering from a cosmetic procedure. If your doctor tells you to use cool compresses or don’t rub your face, listen. They aren’t just saying those things to make your life hard and they aren’t being overly careful.
Your doctor wants you to have a great outcome just as much as you do. So, do what your doctor says, along with eating a healthy diet, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep. The healthier you are, the better outcome you can expect.
Secret 6: Therapy may enhance your cosmetic procedure experience and the outcome.
No, you’re not crazy because you want to undergo a cosmetic procedure. However, a handful of studies have linked depression, anxiety, and other mental health conditions to some people who undergo plastic surgery.
Should you go through with your cosmetic procedure? Absolutely! If that is what you want, go for it.
Just think about talking to a counselor. It can help you go into the procedure with a better mindset and can even improve your recovery experience. Add to that the benefits of learning stress management which is especially important if you have a low threshold for pain.
Secret 7: Cosmetic surgery is not a magic bullet that will make you 21 again.
Some people who opt for cosmetic surgery feel that it is their last option. It is a last-ditch effort to regain the youth they feel they’ve lost.
The truth is, cosmetic surgery is designed to help you be your best you, whatever your age.
It won’t turn back the clock so that you look 21 when you are really 51. But it can help you shave years off of your appearance and help you feel better about what you see when you look in the mirror.
Realistic expectations are important when you decide to have cosmetic surgery.
If you are looking for cosmetic surgery in Northern Virginia, MedSpa can help you put your best face forward. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
