Understanding Plastic Surgery: Purpose, Procedures, and Considerations

Plastic surgery is a specialized branch of medicine that aims at restoring, repairing or improving several sections of the body. It has been often classified into two broad categories such as reconstructive surgery and cosmetic (aesthetic) surgery. Reconstructive surgery intends to recover function and aesthetics in case of trauma, illness and genetic flaws. Some examples are the repair of cleft lips, burn treatment or breast reconstruction following mastectomy. Cosmetic surgery, however, is done to enhance the appearance following the wishes of the patient. It is usually surgery of the nose (rhinoplasty), liposuction, facelifts, and breast implants. One should be acquainted with the advantages as well as the dangers of plastic surgery before deciding on the same. The advantages may be high self-esteem, functional restoration, and better physical appearance. But any surgery is associated with some risks, and these may include infection, scarring, or anesthetic problems. Setting realistic expectations is very important; although plastic surgery may help to make one look better, it does not always resolve any emotional and psychological problems. One of the most significant actions is to select a qualified and board-certified plastic surgeon. The credentials of their surgeon, his/her experience, and reviews must be well researched by the patients. It is recommended that a thorough consultation should be conducted, questions should be raised, and the goals, the possible results, and the possible risks should be discussed. The time frame taken to recover and the care to obtain after surgery will also depend on which procedure to be conducted and it is, therefore, important to adhere to the prescriptions given by the surgeon to have the best outcome.