“The body says what words cannot.” So mused dance legend Martha Graham years ago, a sentiment ringing true today for cosmetic surgeons. Whether they sculpt a woman’s bosom through breast augmentation or define a derriere with a Brazilian butt lift, they are as much artists as scientists. The bodies they enhance speak eloquently beyond mere words. Understanding these key details about cosmetic surgery allows people to choose procedures to help them get the body they desire.
Cosmetic and Plastic Surgeons Are Distinguishable
It is commonly believed that cosmetic surgery and plastic surgery are interchangeable terms describing the same type of medical practice. However, this is technically incorrect. Although these specialties are related, there are differences in medical training and distinct goals for each discipline.
A cosmetic surgeon focuses on the aesthetic enhancement of the human body. Facial contouring through rhinoplasty, body contouring utilizing a BBL procedure and breast enhancement or reduction are all procedures exemplifying the work of this specialty.
By contrast, a reconstructive plastic surgeon’s aim is a reconstruction of bodily defects to bring the patient back to health and normalcy. Skin grafts to treat burns, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy and the repair of congenital defects like cleft palates are all part of this practitioner’s bailiwick. Both specialists are medical doctors steeped in science. One is an artist, the other a repairman.
Cosmetic Surgery Is Personal and Permanent
Unlike the patient undergoing plastic surgery, a person who decides on cosmetic surgery is generally in good condition. The reasons for selecting a cosmetic procedure are driven by personal desire rather than need. A good example is a woman who chooses to have a BBL procedure to enhance a part of her anatomy that she feels is lacking. A cosmetic surgeon can create new contours to restore her confidence in her appearance.
The decision to have cosmetic surgery is a deeply personal one, and there is always the outside chance of regret as the outcome. A psychological condition called body dysmorphic disorder involves a person who inordinately fixates on a physical flaw. Cosmetic surgery may or may not be able to address this issue.
Self-Confidence and Health Can Happily Co-Exist
People are sometimes judged harshly as being vain for wanting a body different from what they inherited. However, today’s cosmetic surgeons understand the value of reconstructing the body to create a rebirth of the human spirit. They are advocates for harmonizing people’s image with their health and self-confidence.
