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Cosmetic Surgery: Options and Procedures

Each year, thousands of individuals turn to cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance, reshape their bodies and reduce the effects of aging. For many men and women, the numerous procedures available can enhance self-esteem and build confidence, as long as the procedure is done for the right reasons in a tasteful manner.

Cosmetic procedures are also known as aesthetic enhancements and, more popularly, as nip-and-tucks. A surgical option is available for almost every part of the body, including: 

• arms
• breasts
• buttocks
• eyes
• face
• legs
• skin
• torso/tummy area.
  

While women generally pursue options more aggressively, men are becoming more active in seeking opportunities to improve their appearance through cosmetic surgery procedures.

Most Common Cosmetic Surgeries for Men and Women
Although forty is the median age for those who get cosmetic surgeries, teens and older adults are also getting aesthetic enhancements. The older the individual, the less dramatic the results (s)he will experience from having surgery. For example, many procedures, such as facial rejuvenations, can't eliminate the cumulative effects of sun damage and excessive, deep furrows.

The following surgeries are among the extensive list of common procedures:

• Breast enlargement (mammaplasty) uses saline implants to increase breast size.
  
  
• Breast lift (mastopexy) removes sagging skin and repositions nipples and surrounding tissue.
  
  
• Breast reduction (gynecomastia) removes excess tissue first through liposuctions of the extra fat and then by cutting away the extra skin.
  
• Ear surgery (otoplasty) reduces the impact of extended or large ears and is typically performed on younger children.
  
  
• Eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) corrects droopy lids and removes puffy bags.
  
  
• Facelift (rhytidectomy) reduces puffiness, sagging and loose skin.
  
  
• Facial implants includes restructuring receding chins, enhancing cheeks and changing jaw lines.
  
  
• Hair replacement surgery incorporates various techniques, such as grafting and scalp reduction.
  
  
• Liposuction (lipoplasty) refers to the process of withdrawing fat from areas including the arms, stomach, thighs, buttocks and neck.
  
  
• Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) enlarges, reduces or changes the nose's shape.
  
  
• A Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) involves fat and skin removal plus muscle tightening.
  

If you are considering getting a few procedures done, surgeons recommend that you get no more than two procedures at one time. For instance, a patient may elect to have a tummy tuck in conjunction with a breast lift or a rhinoplasty with cheek reconstruction. After (s)he has recovered from the first combination procedure, (s)he can go back for other surgeries.

The dental field has also seen a boost in cosmetic surgical and restorative requests, along with a host of new techniques. The effects of age, genetics, smoking and caffeine products contribute to the yellowing, graying and browning of teeth. Smile enhancements include porcelain veneers and ceramic bonds. These not only serve to brighten, but they can also camouflage gapping, chipped or broken teeth.

What Everyone Should Know About Cosmetic Surgery
As with any invasive procedure, cosmetic surgeries come with their own set of risks. Some of the potential dangers involved with aesthetic enhancements include:

• blood clots
• build up of scar tissue beneath the skin
• infections 
• nerve damage
• reactions to anesthesia
• scarring.
  

Nerve damage localized to the site of the surgery may occur, causing the patient to loose sensation in this area. This can be temporary or long-term. Although larger nerves are rarely affected, smaller nerve networks frequently undergo trauma with any procedure.

In addition, individuals who have unrealistic expectations may be disappointed by their results, especially when it comes to scarring. For this reason, discuss all aspects of the surgery with your doctor to be sure that you fully understand what's involved and what to expect in the recovery process and for your final results.

Some questions to ask include:

• Where is the incision going to be made?
• How big will the incision be?
• Will scarring (or size, if implants are involved) reduce over time?
• What is the likelihood that scar tissue will develop?
• Will I need additional surgeries or treatment for my procedure?
  

Occasionally, additional surgeries can't remove scar tissue that increases in size, becomes prominently raised or develops a flap, known as keloid scarring. While the development of any of these conditions is rare, each is irreversible. Consequently, be sure that you are prepared to accept the possibility of them when deciding whether or not to get cosmetic surgery. 

The Costs of Cosmetic Surgery
Insurance doesn't cover enhancements made for the sake of appearance. Although most physicians require payment up front for these elective procedures, they also tend to have payment plans for those who can't afford the entire cost in one payment.

Fees vary by region and by physician. Costs also reflect hospital or outpatient services, anesthesia and, in some cases, specialized technician assistance.

Facial treatments, including BOTOX® and collagen injections, may cost as little as $200 per visit. Cheek and chin implants begin at approximately $1,500 while rhinoplasties can range upward from $4,000. Expect to pay from $6,000-$14,000 for thighs, buttocks and tummy tucks. Breast augmentations and reductions (including those for men) will fall somewhere between $5,000 and $8,000.

Dental procedures are also priced according to location and choice of practitioner. Expect to see a range of $1,000 to more than $2,000 per veneer. Bonds can start at $300 and rise to approximately $1,500.

Choosing the Cosmetic Surgeon
Specialized cosmetic surgeons will be happy to discuss their credentials and practices in detail. Many of the qualified surgeons may also offer testimonies from former patients who are satisfied with their services.

Keep in mind that many surgeons charge for consultations. However, if you are seriously considering aesthetic enhancement, paying a small fee to personally talk to a surgeon, get your questions answered and decide whether or not the procedure is right for you is well worth it. Always select a licensed practitioner who is experienced in the particular procedure under consideration.