Dr. Sheila Rohatgi

Cosmetic surgery is a type of surgery that is performed to enhance or improve the appearance of a person's body or face. These procedures are typically elective, meaning that they are not medically necessary and are instead chosen by the patient for personal or aesthetic reasons.

Here are some examples of cosmetic surgery procedures include:

• Facelift: a procedure that tightens and lifts the skin on the face and neck to reduce wrinkles and sagging skin.
• Rhinoplasty: a procedure that reshapes the nose to improve its appearance or function.
• Breast augmentation: a procedure that involves the use of implants to increase the size of the breasts.
• Liposuction: a procedure that removes excess fat from specific areas of the body using a suction technique.
• Tummy tuck: a procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen to tighten the muscles and create a flatter stomach.
• Botox injection: a procedure that uses small injections of a chemical called Botulinum toxin to temporarily paralyze the muscles that cause wrinkles, it's mainly used in the face.

It is important to keep in mind that cosmetic surgery is a serious decision that should not be taken lightly. Patients should do their research and carefully consider the risks and benefits of any procedure before going through with it. They should also consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and any potential risks or complications.

Like any surgical procedure, cosmetic surgery carries some risks and potential complications. Some of the risks associated with cosmetic surgery include the following factors.

Health Risks Related to Cosmetic Surgery

• Infection: Any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection, which can be caused by bacteria entering the wound.
• Anesthesia complications: All surgeries require some form of anesthesia, and there are always some risks associated with the use of anesthesia.
• Hematoma or seroma: These are collections of blood or fluid that can form around the surgical site and can cause swelling, pain, and infection.
• Nerve damage: Some cosmetic procedures, particularly those involving the face, carry a risk of nerve damage that can cause numbness, tingling, or weakness.
• Scarring: All surgical procedures leave some level of scarring, and this can be more noticeable in certain areas of the body, such as the face.

It's important to note that most of these risks can be minimized by choosing a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon, and by following the surgeon's pre-and post-operative instructions.

• It's also important to have realistic expectations about the outcome of cosmetic surgery and to understand that the results will not always be perfect.
• Some patients may need multiple procedures to achieve their desired result.
• Furthermore, it's important to note that some people may develop a psychological condition called Body Dysmorphic Disorder (BDD) in which they become preoccupied with perceived flaws in their appearance and may seek excessive cosmetic surgery.
• Therefore, it is essential to undergo a thorough psychiatric evaluation before considering any cosmetic surgery procedure.
• It's essential to weigh the benefits and risks of any procedure and to consult with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon before making a decision.