With 17.5 million* total cosmetic procedures performed in 2017, it’s no surprise that there is a ton of misinformation circulating on the internet about plastic surgery. Here are the top 5 plastic surgery myths, along with the actual truth behind them:
MYTH 1 – PLASTIC SURGERY AND COSMETIC SURGERY ARE THE SAME
Plastic surgery involves a repair or enhancement, so almost any procedure has a cosmetic element. However, plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are not the same thing. While there is no nationally recognized standardization of training for cosmetic surgeons, a plastic surgeon must receive board certification in plastic surgery from the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. A physician must complete five years in surgical training at an accredited hospital, with at least two of those years dedicated to plastic surgery.
MYTH 2 – LIPOSUCTION IS AN EFFECTIVE WAY TO LOSE WEIGHT
While liposuction removes fat from the body, it is not meant as a weight-loss tool. The procedure is designed to remove localized areas of fat from trouble spots that have not responded well to traditional diet and exercise. Weight-loss through liposuction is site-specific. The best liposuction candidate is someone at a fairly stable healthy weight, with areas of exercise resistant fatty deposits and who prefers a slightly different body shape.
MYTH 3 – PLASTIC SURGERY IS JUST FOR WOMEN
Plastic surgery is increasing in popularity among males. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, men accounted for 13% of all cosmetic surgical procedures and 8% of all minimally-invasive procedures in 2017**. Common procedures amongst men include gynecomastia surgery (male breast reduction), facelift, rhinoplasty, liposuction and eyelid surgery. Common treatments also include Botox and fillers such as Juvederm to enhance their appearance.
MYTH 4 – PLASTIC SURGERY IS ONLY FOR THE RICH AND/OR FAMOUS
Do you think of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills when you hear the term plastic surgery? While it can increase a woman’s self-confidence by giving her the body she’s always dreamed of, it can also help babies born with severe birth defects, or give a breast cancer survivor a new outlook on life. Not every patient of Suffolk Plastic Surgeons, PC wears designer labels or is adorned in diamonds. Most patients are just regular people seeking increased confidence through an enhanced appearance! We offer a number of financing options [link] and, in some cases, insurance may even cover the cost.
MYTH 5 – FAT CAN APPEAR IN OTHER AREAS AFTER LIPOSUCTION
If fat reappears after liposuction, it is not due to the procedure! During a liposuction procedure, fat cells are removed from the body. If a patient gains weight, fat can reappear in other places. A continued plan of exercise and healthy eating to prevent weight gain is key to long-lasting results. In some cases, a patient might perceive increased fat because after the procedure, the perception of their body is out of proportion. For example, a woman might feel as if her arms look heavier after having liposuction on her thighs.
Do you have a question about a procedure? Call Suffolk Plastic Surgeons, PC at 631-364-0333 to schedule a consultation with one of our 4 board certified plastic surgeons!
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