Who Gets Plastic Surgery

admin — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 21:59:01 +0000

Plastic surgery is no longer the domain of celebrities. All types of people pursue plastic surgery as a means of enhancing their satisfaction with their appearances. From mothers in their early 30s to baby boomer men in their 60s, plastic surgery has increasingly been accepted as a path to self improvement.

The entrance of plastic surgery into the mainstream is evident in the statistics about plastic surgery. Comprehensive survey data is collected by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons every year, and the results reveal the surprising popularity of plastic surgery among different demographic groups. Baby boomers are getting breast lifts, upper arm lifts, and facelifts, and mothers are not shy about turning to the “mommy makeover” procedures to rejuvenate their bodies.

In 2006, 11 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the United States. These procedures included plastic surgery and minimally invasive cosmetic treatments such as BOTOX® Cosmetic. Of the people receiving plastic surgery or cosmetic treatments, the overwhelming portion remain women who make up 90 percent of patients. However, men are showing a rising interest in cosmetic plastic surgery. The number of men pursuing cosmetic procedures has risen 8 percent between 2000 and 2006.

Baby Boomers and Plastic Surgery

At this time, the 40 to 54 age group, which includes both men and women, seeks plastic surgery the most often. With nearly 5 million procedures in 2006, this age group accounted for 45 percent of total patients. People age 55 and over made up one quarter of cosmetic procedures in 2006 at 26 percent. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons both of these age groups combined displayed a 12 percent rise in cosmetic procedures from 2005 to 2006.

People in the 40 to 54 age group and especially the age 55 and over group represent the famous baby boomer demographic. With a large segment of the population aging, the rise in cosmetic procedures makes sense, but the youthful attitude of many baby boomers prompts them to seek plastic surgery. Healthy and active lifestyles are becoming the norm for people as they enter their 50s and 60s, and the desire to look young is a natural reaction.

Data from the ASPS surveys indicate that since 2005 tummy tucks have increased 7 percent, breast lifts are up 11 percent, and facelifts went up an impressive 22 percent for the baby boomer age groups.

Mothers and Plastic Surgery

The Los Angeles plastic surgery procedures of breast augmentation, tummy tucks, and breast lifts are often dubbed “mommy makeover” surgeries. Although not all women who undergo these procedures are mothers, they do provide women unhappy with how pregnancy has changed their bodies with attractive options for rejuvenation. Among women of childbearing years, typically ages 20 to 39, plastic surgery is on the rise. For example, within this age group tummy tucks were up 9 percent in 2006 over the previous year and breast lifts rose 11 percent.

According to the ASPS, more childbearing women are turning to plastic surgery due to busy schedules and their need to return to their careers quickly after becoming mothers. However, other contributing factors are the broader availability of qualified plastic surgeons across many regions and the appeal of the results that can often be achieved. Tummy tucks for example are sometimes the only way to achieve a firmer and smoother torso once skin has been stretched by multiple pregnancies.

Furthermore, women often have a deep personal desire to slim and firm up their bodies after childbearing in order to boost their self image. Some women can take considerable pride in looking good after having children, and revitalizing some of the physical firmness of their pre-pregnancy bodies provides much satisfaction.

The types of people that seek Los Angeles plastic surgery and their reasons for wanting to enhance aspects of their physical appearances are diverse. Plastic surgery attracts women and men of all different ages. No single stereotype of the plastic surgery patient exists. People generally have a natural desire to improve and maintain their appearances according to their personal preferences, and for some people this includes plastic surgery.

Advice on How to Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery

admin — Thu, 23 Feb 2006 19:29:23 +0000

Plastic surgery requires thoughtful preparation. Take plenty of time, learn as much as you can and make the right decision for you. The following advice will assist you in mentally preparing for plastic surgery.

Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery With Research

If you are considering plastic surgery, it’s important to make an informed decision. Start with some self-directed research on the procedure of interest to you. Internet research offers a wealth of resources for answers to the many questions and concerns you may have.

Refer to Web sites like DocShop.com for informative articles and recent news about plastic surgery. Discover the risks and benefits. Find out about cost and financing options. You can also get assistance locating a plastic surgeon in your area.

Know What Makes a Good Candidate for Plastic Surgery

Contrary to a misguided notion, a good candidate for plastic surgery possesses a positive self-image. Dissatisfaction with a particular aspect of appearance is a normal occurrence. The best candidate views plastic surgery as beneficial, not detrimental.

Plastic surgery can restore confidence and maintain self-image. However, the proper candidate has realistic expectations and a firm understanding for the benefits and limitations of the cosmetic procedure at hand. Physical health and emotional well-being are necessary elements for success with plastic surgery.

Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery With a Consultation

A consultation with a medical professional is required prior to plastic surgery. Be forthright and explain your dissatisfaction and desired outcome. Proper communication ensures that you and the cosmetic surgeon are on the same page.

Confidence in the capability of your cosmetic plastic surgeon, the medical staff and operating facility is crucial in order to prepare for plastic surgery mentally. Verify credentials and check for board certification through an accredited organization, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Ask the plastic surgeon for details regarding his or her experience with the specific procedure at hand. It may be helpful to look at a portfolio of plastic surgery photos as a demonstration of the surgeon’s expertise.

Preparing for Plastic Surgery: Realistic Expectations and Mental Stability

The cosmetic surgeon will explain the benefits of plastic surgery in terms of realistic results. Following a thorough medical exam, the doctor will explain potential risks in detail. Ask questions about any thing that is unclear.

Be prepared to answer personal questions regarding work, home and relationships. The doctor will want to evaluate emotional stability in order to move forward with the procedure. Cosmetic plastic surgery is not recommended for patients under considerable stress or in the midst of traumatic events.

Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery: Understand the Recovery Period

Depending on the plastic surgery procedure, recovery can prove somewhat challenging. In some cases, there may be discomfort, including bruising and swelling. Certain surgical procedures require that patients remain in bed for a number of days, followed by limited activity.

Following postoperative directions and being prepared for emotional challenges can ensure a positive recovery. Post surgical depression is a common experience for many patients. In most cases, depression subsides within a few days. Patients must also understand that results from plastic surgery occur gradually.

Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery: Emotional Support

Enlist the support of a trustworthy friend during the early postoperative period. Physical assistance around the house may be necessary to guarantee that you receive the appropriate amount of rest. However, emotional support is just as vital for a more positive recovery experience.

Though cosmetic plastic surgery is an elective procedure, it should be taken seriously. Understand the permanence of the procedure and think carefully before making a decision. Visit DocShop.com for more advice on how to prepare for plastic surgery mentally.

Plastic Surgery,Skin Care,Cosmetic Surgery » Surgery Plastic

Who Gets Plastic Surgery

Advice on How to Mentally Prepare for Plastic Surgery