Top 10 Plastic Surgery Myths Busted!

There are many misconceptions revolving around the hows, whys and whats of plastic surgery. Since its not as common as going to a physician for an infection or consulting a dermatologist for acne, sometimes people don’t even realize how it might benefit them and change their lives. Though it has gained popularity in India in the past ten years or so, many people are not well acquainted with its procedures and outcomes. Moreover their notion of plastic surgery is very distorted, most of the ‘knowledge’ being apparently derived from hearsay, with neighbourhood aunties, relatives and gossip magazines being the prime source.
Keeping in mind the same, we have compiled a list of the most everyday myths about plastic surgery and its results to set the records straight. Keep reading…maybe you’ll decide that one of these was stopping you from getting one!

1- It is not meant for the masses

It is a very common conviction that only models and film stars go for cosmetic surgery since their career demands them to have a perfectly sculpted body and face to look more attractive on screen. Au contraire, increasing number of people these days are opting for hair transplants, liposuction, breast augmentation and eye beautification to raise the low levels self-confidence and morale that set in due to ageing and imperfections in their bodies. Believe us when we say that many in your immediate social circle might have got it done and you never came to know about it!

2- It is extremely expensive and not worth the money

This is one of the biggest delusions and many people back out because of the expenses involved. What they fail to comprehend is that this cost is relative. The results of a plastic surgery are not transient and no amount of money can compare the value of getting a changed and better physical appearance. After all, we have only one face and one body.

3- Plastic surgery leaves scars

It’s true that tucking away loose skin demands stitching it up. But since the ultimate goal is to enhance your aesthetic appeal, the scars are either concealed or camouflaged well and cannot be seen easily, giving you a natural look with no obvious signs of surgery.

4- People go abroad for plastic surgery

Plastic and reconstructive surgery techniques date back to 600 BC and India boasts of being home to the first plastic surgeon, Sushutra. Even today, Indian plastic surgeons are considered to be one of the best worldwide and many international patients fly in here for surgery.

5- Cosmetic and plastic surgery are one and the same thing

Although used interchangeably, plastic surgery is a much broader term, which encompasses reconstructive, cosmetic as well as hand surgery. Whereas, cosmetic surgery mainly deals with restoring or improving the exterior appearance. This requires a strong knowledge base, high levels of training and practical experience. Above all, the surgeon needs to have an eye to appreciate finer nuances that improve your aesthetic appearance.

6- Men do not opt for plastic surgery

This illusion crops from the belief that beauty and improved looks are required and desired only by women. But irrespective of gender, a flabby body or premature balding becomes a cause of distress and low self-esteem. You’ll be amazed to know that there is an extensive range of plastic surgery services available for men, viz. hair transplant, six-pack abs, male breast reduction, penile enlargement, face lift, abdominoplasty, and rhinoplasty.

7- Fat is regained after liposuction

You have the same number of fat cells in your body right now, as it was when you were born. Surprised? Technically speaking, the number of fat cells in a body remains fixed throughout one’s lifetime. Body does not lose or gain these cells. Our food habits and lifestyle choices lead to an increase in their size and hence, the weight gain. In a plastic surgery, fat cells are sucked out and stubborn pockets of fat are eliminated. Possibility of weight gain after surgery is low, the primary factor being reverting to eccentric diet and exercise patterns.
However, you must realise that nothing is permanent in life. Even a newly constructed house requires revamping after a few years!

8- Face lift gives a frozen-face look

The outcomes of an aesthetic surgery all come down to the skills and experience of the plastic surgeon. Failure to choose one wisely may lead to irreparable damage resulting in a face full of mistakes. Hence it is crucial to pick a competent and qualified surgeon who has an eye for detailed aesthetic evaluation and tailors his technique according to your requirements. Moreover, endoscopic surgeries are done these days, which give a scar free, and more natural look.

9- Hair transplant is painful and the results are not permanent

False! If the transplanted hair are taken from the permanent donor area and the proper technique is used, they will grow as normal hair and not fall throughout your lifetime. You can cut them, shave them, style them, shampoo them, dye them or color them, without worrying about any of them getting damaged!
As for the procedure is painful, the entire surgery is done under local anesthesia and the patient is fully conscious during the procedure. The mild post-op pain stays for 3-4 days and can be easily tackled with painkillers.

10- Breast augmentation impairs breastfeeding

Apart from being an integral part of a woman’s vanity, breasts serve the vital function of lactation after childbirth. Ergo it is instinctive to worry about the results of breast augmentation or reduction on breastfeeding. But with the advancements in technology, it is now possible to choose the technique best suited to your requirement so that milk production is not hampered.
So go ahead, explore your options. You never know, this might be the best decision you ever made for yourself!