Do you need plastic surgery? Probably not. In most cases, plastic surgery is a want, not a need.
Most people considering plastic surgery fall into one of two groups. The first is composed of people who are happy with their appearance but still find themselves wondering, "what if?" The other group knows what they want, and they usually come to my office with a very detailed list of what they desire.
Men and women of all ages choose to have plastic surgery for a variety of reasons. Some simply want to fit in by normalizing physical aspects of their bodies, especially among younger patients. Others want to achieve better proportions in regard to their figure, perhaps through breast augmentation.
Some want help maintaining an optimal body contour through liposuction. Still, others wish to restore their youthful appearance through facelifts or a myriad of nonsurgical procedures like chemical peels, Botox injections and dermal fillers.
Ensuring natural results
When performed appropriately, plastic surgery respects your body while restoring your youthful appearance. Also, when done correctly, plastic surgery can augment aspects of your body in a way that is natural and complementary to your physique. When done poorly, however, plastic surgery can create an artificial look that may negatively affect your body image.
This fad is evident in social media: oversized lips, breasts and buttocks. The "look at me, I've had plastic surgery" look is not appealing to most, and a plastic surgeon with good judgment should steer you away from such an appearance. Plastic surgery is designed to enhance your unique beauty; it is not about making you look like a celebrity or someone else.
Deciding to have plastic surgery or any kind of elective surgery should not be an impulsive decision, but one that is very carefully thought out. The best candidates for cosmetic surgery are individuals who are looking to have their appearance improved and enhanced, not perfected. These candidates are physically and mentally healthy and have reasonable expectations of how cosmetic surgery will enhance their appearance.
Basically, the ideal cosmetic surgery patient is someone who wants to look as good as they feel.
Choosing the right plastic surgeon
An important point to consider when deciding if you want plastic surgery is whether your reason is a good reason. Do the expected benefits outweigh the possible risks? Once you have decided to have plastic surgery based on a healthy reason, your next step is to find a board-certified plastic surgeon who has the experience and expertise, and can show proof of exceptional long-term results. Learn more about the our plastic surgery services.
Your relationship with a plastic surgeon is usually not a one-and-done event. Ideally, the relationship develops into a long-term partnership between you and your plastic surgeon, as I have found in my practice. Together, you and your plastic surgeon can determine what is needed to look and be your best at any given age and stage in your life.
The West Georgia Center for Plastic Surgery, a Tanner Medical Group practice, is located in Carrollton. Dr. Stephen Kahler is a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. For more information or to inquire about a personalized consultation, call 770-834-6302 or visit WestGeorgiaPlasticSurgery.org.