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Common Myths About Cosmetic Surgery

November 16, 2016
Myths1

While cosmetic or aesthetic surgery is becoming increasingly popular and commonplace in Ireland and beyond, there are still a lot of myths and misinformation surrounding it. I thought I would address some of the more common ones.

1. Cosmetic surgery is the same as plastic surgery

No, plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are not the same thing. Cosmetic surgery, which is also known as aesthetic surgery, refers to plastic surgery that is performed on a patient with normal forms and functions. It is elective; in other words, the patient chooses to undergo the procedure or procedures, and the aim is to enhance the patient’s appearance.

2. Cosmetic surgery is all about vanity

You might think from the above that cosmetic surgery is indeed all about the ‘cosmetic’ and how we look, or, to put it another way, vanity. In my experience working as a lead consultant plastic surgeon at the Blackrock Clinic, this is not at all true. It is more about self-esteem and inner confidence and how to achieve or restore it.

Many people have long-standing issues that impact on how they feel about themselves. The issue could be a large or misshapen nose, a disfigurement, or excess fat that just won’t move despite all efforts when abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck would be of great benefit.

Also, our bodies change as we age, and this can impact on self-esteem. Some of my favourite procedures to perform, such as a rhinoplasty (nose job) or facelift give me great satisfaction as they can have such a dramatic impact on a person’s confidence and sense of self-worth.

3. Cosmetic surgery is expensive

While it is true that many insurance policies don’t cover cosmetic surgery, as it is elective, advancements in treatments mean that it is becoming increasingly affordable to undergo a procedure. However, just as it is important to research your options and what is involved, it is very important not to cut corners when choosing a surgeon or clinic for any procedure you might decide to have.

You should only put yourself in the hands of a properly accredited and highly-skilled experienced practitioner who will explain clearly the medical terms and factors you need to consider before making a decision. Remember, this is an investment in your self-esteem and, often, your wellbeing.

Myths 2

4. Cosmetic surgery is only for women

This is most definitely not true! Irish men are undergoing procedures in increasing numbers. Their reasons for doing so are similar too: wanting to feel better about themselves, addressing long- standing concerns around a particular area that impacts on their self esteem.

5. Liposuction is helpful for weight loss

As treatments become more advanced, affordable and effective, the old stigma around ‘getting something done’ is falling away, for both men and women.

It’s a common misconception that liposuction is some sort of weight loss treatment. In fact it is a body contouring procedure that works on specific, targeted areas of stubborn fat in areas such as the tummy or thighs. It is not a means to losing weight in the broader sense. In fact, a potential patient will often need to lose weight before the surgery, and a sustained healthy diet and lifestyle will be necessary after the procedure to maintain results.

If you are considering a cosmetic surgery procedure, we can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Find out all you need to know about cosmetic surgery procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post- Treatment Care:

Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

Myths1

While cosmetic or aesthetic surgery is becoming increasingly popular and commonplace in Ireland and beyond, there are still a lot of myths and misinformation surrounding it. I thought I would address some of the more common ones.

1. Cosmetic surgery is the same as plastic surgery

No, plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are not the same thing. Cosmetic surgery, which is also known as aesthetic surgery, refers to plastic surgery that is performed on a patient with normal forms and functions. It is elective; in other words, the patient chooses to undergo the procedure or procedures, and the aim is to enhance the patient’s appearance.

2. Cosmetic surgery is all about vanity

You might think from the above that cosmetic surgery is indeed all about the ‘cosmetic’ and how we look, or, to put it another way, vanity. In my experience working as a lead consultant plastic surgeon at the Blackrock Clinic, this is not at all true. It is more about self-esteem and inner confidence and how to achieve or restore it.

Many people have long-standing issues that impact on how they feel about themselves. The issue could be a large or misshapen nose, a disfigurement, or excess fat that just won’t move despite all efforts when abdominoplasty or a tummy tuck would be of great benefit.

Also, our bodies change as we age, and this can impact on self-esteem. Some of my favourite procedures to perform, such as a rhinoplasty (nose job) or facelift give me great satisfaction as they can have such a dramatic impact on a person’s confidence and sense of self-worth.

3. Cosmetic surgery is expensive

While it is true that many insurance policies don’t cover cosmetic surgery, as it is elective, advancements in treatments mean that it is becoming increasingly affordable to undergo a procedure. However, just as it is important to research your options and what is involved, it is very important not to cut corners when choosing a surgeon or clinic for any procedure you might decide to have.

You should only put yourself in the hands of a properly accredited and highly-skilled experienced practitioner who will explain clearly the medical terms and factors you need to consider before making a decision. Remember, this is an investment in your self-esteem and, often, your wellbeing.

Myths 2

4. Cosmetic surgery is only for women

This is most definitely not true! Irish men are undergoing procedures in increasing numbers. Their reasons for doing so are similar too: wanting to feel better about themselves, addressing long- standing concerns around a particular area that impacts on their self esteem.

5. Liposuction is helpful for weight loss

As treatments become more advanced, affordable and effective, the old stigma around ‘getting something done’ is falling away, for both men and women.

It’s a common misconception that liposuction is some sort of weight loss treatment. In fact it is a body contouring procedure that works on specific, targeted areas of stubborn fat in areas such as the tummy or thighs. It is not a means to losing weight in the broader sense. In fact, a potential patient will often need to lose weight before the surgery, and a sustained healthy diet and lifestyle will be necessary after the procedure to maintain results.

If you are considering a cosmetic surgery procedure, we can advise on the best options for you. Contact us to arrange a consultation.

Find out all you need to know about cosmetic surgery procedures and the factors you need to consider in our free guide: Considerations Before Deciding on Cosmetic Surgery and Post- Treatment Care:

Download Mr. Chan's Guide to Cosmetic Surgery Considerations

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