It can start out as a simple procedure, just a little Botox®, but once you get comfortable with that, you begin to venture into a greater realm of cosmetic possibilities. Facelifts, butt lifts, and neck lifts, oh my! Maybe you’re considering plastic surgery for yourself, but are scared of the possibility of going too far. It can be hard to know when to draw the line. Below, we’ve covered the basics to help guide you through determining how much plastic surgery is just too much.
Why Do Some People Overdo It?
During an initial consultation, a plastic surgeon will typically evaluate a patient’s mental health to determine if they are a good candidate for cosmetic surgery. This is to get a feel for how realistic the patient’s concerns and expectations are, so they can predict if plastic surgery may become problematic. It is not uncommon to see a patient suffering from Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD), a condition that causes the person to focus or even obsess on a specific bodily flaw, which is most of the time very small or imagined. These patients are typically not good candidates for cosmetic surgery as repeated attempts to fix their perceived problem can lead to more serious problems. In cases such as these, a surgeon may recommend the patient receive counseling as an alternative.
Finding the Right Balance
Regardless of the possible negative outcomes, if exercised properly, having cosmetic surgery is not only safe, but a great option to achieve a desired look. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will want to ensure you have a healthy and realistic outlook on surgery by asking more about your desires and motives. Plastic surgery can be a beneficial experience for those who:
- Have a healthy self-esteem
- Are in good mental and physical health
- Have considered plastic surgery carefully
- Have realistic expectations of their surgical results
- Are looking to better their well-being and confidence
Regardless of your cosmetic goals, if you’re pursuing plastic surgery for positive reasons, select a great surgeon. You can have beautiful, natural results.
Allowing Follow-Up
It is important to note, however, that while having repeated procedures can lead to further issues, it is not always problematic and is, at times, necessary. Many procedures actually require follow-up later on. While cosmetic procedures can improve your overall appearance, it doesn’t stall the aging process. Treated areas will continue to age and may need to be touched up over time. In this case, your surgeon will help you decide how often and what amount of cosmetic touch up is necessary to keep up optimal results.
Garcia Facial Plastic Surgery, led by double board-certified facial plastic surgeon Dr. Phillip Garcia, is the leading provider for facial surgery procedures in North Florida. Residents of Jacksonville, Town Center, Avondale, and the neighboring communities can contact us today to schedule a consultation at one of our offices.
