With the recent media attention concerning plastic surgery gone astray, there are specific questions the potential patient should ask prior to going under the knife…
Any surgical procedure has inherent risk, especially when performed outside of a controlled facility. I believe in preventive maintenance and non-invasive cosmetic treatments for the aging “baby boomer”. So many alternatives have been introduced relative to “anti-aging”, that the choices have become a blur of promises that the fountain of youth has been discovered.
From my soon to be published book, MD Skin Secrets – A Natural Discovery, I identify the fact that a lot of surgeons are jumping on the cosmetic band wagon. Some common sense approaches are recommended as well as the state of affairs in the specialty of “cosmetic surgery.
Below are a few excerpts…
10.2 million Cosmetic procedures were performed in 2005 according to the A.S.P.S. (American Society of Plastic Surgeons).15 In the last few years it seems everyone is jumping on the bandwagon. I’m not sure if the public has noticed, but “cosmetic surgeons” are appearing on every corner. Physicians that trained in ear, nose and throat or general surgery are certifying themselves to become, “facial plastic surgeons”. Most are qualified doctors, but specializing in cosmetic procedures after medical school is something new to the health-care profession.
Supply and demand is driving this trend in the baby boomer age. If you don’t believe that “skin is in”, just pull out your phone book and look for physicians and cosmetic surgeons. You will find a plethora of choices, but read the fine print. This is a “sub-secret” you may not be aware of when it comes to “plastic surgery”. Just as you should read the labels and check out ingredients when you purchase skin care products, the same due-diligence is required if you chose cosmetic surgery.
A “board certified” plastic surgeon can be easily identified; just look for the circle.16 Usually visible on print ads or office materials, you can’t miss the logo, a simple broken circle. There are a lot of fine surgeons in practice today, so don’t take this little “secret” as anything more than factual information. But board certified plastic surgeons are subjected to additional training and specialize in plastic and reconstructive surgery, during medical school. Of course, additional certifications and advanced training is normal for some physicians, but you are the judge. Post medical school classes are a little different and certainly not as intensive as the real thing. Multi-tasking may be the new thing, but when it comes to specific surgical procedures, find out how many have been performed and what are the credentials. Corrective surgeries for unsuccessful cosmetic procedures are becoming more prevalent, so do your comparative shopping. This is a great area to take advantage of the best method of advertising known to man; word of mouth. Ask around before you commit to a surgeon and get references!
Under the knife
Too many people decide to go under the knife before reviewing the “less-invasive” alternatives to surgery. Aside from carefully selecting a surgeon that specializes in a specific cosmetic procedure, seek consultation relative to the multitude of high-tech treatments available today. It is simply amazing what some of the new devices and topical products can do for your appearance, so don’t just sign the consent form before you do some research.
Broad spectrum lasers and an array of topical treatments abound, all backed by credible physicians and companies. The choices might make you dizzy, but again, ask friends and associates for recommendations. Be cautious of the media, many may have a hidden agenda. Nothing beats the honest opinion of someone that has had it done themselves. I hate to admit this, but even some of the professional cosmetic facilities can be tainted. Having spent thousands on the latest laser or device, they are motivated to sell customers treatment packages to help pay for the investment. With so many products on the market, as we discussed, you don’t always get what you pay for but you’re stuck with what you drove off the lot.
I believe there are many “non-invasive” and preventive measures that may reduce the signs of aging or enhance your appearance. Concurrently, there are stages or time-line considerations relative to your treatment modalities. Depending on your age as well as the “state of your skin”, distinct categories should be recognized when it comes to expectations. Again, less is often more….
