Surgeries have saved people suffering from chronic diseases. It has also helped people who have had accidents or injuries. However, these procedures evoke negative emotions among people. Most feel apprehensive when they hear this word. Images of sharp medical tools and complicated procedures come to mind. On top of all this is the issue of blood, which is not a welcome sight for most people.
One particular type of surgery that draws negative reactions from people is plastic surgery. This undesirable and disagreeing view stems from the myths that people believe about it. Setting the record straight about these misconceptions can help people understand plastic surgery. Here are the most common ones.
Myth # 1: Plastic Surgery Is for Vanity’s Sake
Some people think that plastic surgery is a shallow thing. They perceive people who undergo such surgeries as superficial and vain. People need to know the difference between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery.
Plastic surgery aims to reconstruct or repair parts of the body. There is a need for such procedures to give the patients relief from pain or discomfort. These procedures can also increase the function of the body part in question. As such, it improves the quality of life of the patient. For example, corrective jaw surgery helps to correct bite or to prevent sleep apnea.
Meanwhile, cosmetic surgery is a field of its own. These procedures focus on improving the aesthetic value of a person’s body part or parts. But even with this thrust, nobody can say that it is for vanity’s sake only. After all, having self-confidence because you feel good about yourself is not a vain thing.
Myth # 2: You Need to Undergo Invasive Procedures with Plastic Surgery
All surgeries had their humble beginnings as invasive procedures. This is the reason why people call it going under the knife. However, thanks to the advancement of technology, more procedures have now become non-invasive.
Plastic surgery also has its share of non-invasive procedures. Some famous examples are CoolScuplting and Botox. Also, non-surgical facelift combines minimal invasive and nonsurgical procedures. When one wants to have plastic surgery done, it is best to know all options available. Non-invasive procedures allow you to carry on with your regular schedule. This is despite having to undergo surgery.
Myth # 3: Plastic Surgery Is Exclusively for Women
This myth has its roots in the idea that plastic surgery is for cosmetic purposes only. Society sees women as more concerned with how they look. Over time, men saw that some plastic surgery procedures could help them in some ways.
For example, calf augmentation after injury could help restore muscle balance. Procedures like hair transplantation or eyelid surgery help some men to gain self-esteem. This, in turn, helps them to gain confidence in their professions. Thus, it is now an accepted practice for men to undergo some plastic surgery procedures.
Myth # 4: Plastic Surgery Is a “Rich and Famous” Thing
Plastic surgery was once associated with the richest and most famous people. Celebrities are the first who shared procedures done on their bodies. Also, there is the fact that these procedures are quite costly, too.
But, ordinary or average people saw the reconstructive benefits of plastic surgery. Thus, they started investing in it, as well. For example, breast reduction surgery helps many ordinary women combat back pain. Nose surgery also helps address obstructed breathing. The good news is that procedures of such nature can get covered with insurance.
Myth # 5: You Only Need to Undergo a Certain Procedure Once
One thing that people must realize is that plastic surgery is not a magic formula. Some procedures have lasting effects, such as rhinoplasty. Breast implants last for around 8 to 10 years. Even these procedures need some care to get the optimal results. A person must pay attention to their recovery stage to prevent complications.
Some procedures need maintenance. A good example is a Botox injection, which lasts an average of four to six months. After this period, you need to have a second treatment. You should also not rely on these medical procedures alone. Coupling it with a good skin care regimen will help you have good skin health.
At present, plastic surgery is still clouded with half-truths and outright misconceptions. Some people miss out on the reconstructive benefits of these procedures. This is because they do not know better. Exposing myths about plastic surgery would help people to accept and try it. Therefore, society should not regard these procedures as taboo anymore if many people see a valid need for them.
