By Liz Zuliani
Plastic surgery can have a profound effect on the way you feel about yourself, boost your self confidence, and dramatically enhance your looks. Minor adjustments can help you look younger or change an unflattering feature.
However, with any surgery, there are risks involved. Some procedures are riskier than others, and every operation comes with the possibility of complications from infections, disfigurement, paralysis and even death. Never underestimate the danger associated with any surgical procedure.
The pros and cons of six common cosmetic procedures:
- Rhinoplasty (nose job)
The operation is carried out under local and general anesthesia. Incisions are made inside the nose and the procedure involves shifting and removal of nose cartilage to modify the framework of the nose.
Pros: the procedure can sometimes help patients breathe better and even cure snoring.
Cons: bleeding, infection and anesthetic complications leading to scarring, nasal septal perforation and breathing obstruction will require additional surgery for correction. - Breast enlargement
Breast enlargements are commonly practised procedures and are generally safe. You’ll have a wide range of implants to choose from, so talk to your surgeon about your desired outcomes from the surgery and how you want your implants to look and feel.
Pros: increased self confidence and being more attractive to the opposite sex.
Cons: scarring, temporary or permanent loss of sensitivity in the breast, back problems and problems with breast feeding. - Liposuction
Liposuction is a great aid to smooth out your silhouette and remove unevenly distributed fat. However, if your weight has fluctuated over the years or you’re obese, liposuction is not the solution for you.
Pros: quick and dramatic results, and relief from the problematic fat deposits you can’t seem to get rid of with diet and exercise.
Cons: allergic reactions to the anesthetic, minor and major surgical complications, infections and internal bleeding. - Tummy tuck
If you have a flabby and loose abdominal area, especially after childbirth or dramatic weight loss, a tummy tuck can be your saviour. During the procedure, your abdominal muscles can be tightened and excess skin removed, leaving a firmer, flatter abdomen. The operation is very popular, and experienced surgeons can achieve excellent results.
Pros: diminishing and removing stretch marks, trimmer waistline and a tighter, firmer and flatter belly.
Cons: scarring, long and painful recovery that may last up to two weeks. - Brow lift
The procedure is used to help reverse the aging process by diminishing the appearance of deep wrinkles and creases across your forehead, caused by years of facial expressions and environmental effects. Younger people are also candidates if they have lowbrows or a deep frown.
Pros: lift a sagging brow, look younger. A brow lift is more effective than lotions and potions that promise the same results, but never deliver.
Cons: the procedure is expensive, you’ll need to find a reputable and experienced surgeon to give you the results you want, along with the usual risks involved in any surgery. - Botox
Botox is widely used to temporary erase frown lines, wrinkles and brow furrows. It works by paralysing the muscles on your face, causing them to contract.
Pros: instant results, affordable, non-invasive and no surgery is required. In some cases, Botox treatments can prevent future wrinkles.
Cons: loss of facial expression. If you start the treatments too early, they can cost you a small fortune in the long-term.
To find a registered and accredited plastic surgeon near you, visit The Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons website for a full listing.
