The cosmetic augmentation business is a fast-growing industry with a total of $8.12 billion spent on cosmetic procedures in 2019. While traditionally women were the primary customers, in recent years there has been a big increase in men undertaking cosmetic treatments as well. The popularity of different procedures has changed in recent years too. Here are some of the most common cosmetic surgeries available today.
Breast Augmentation
Around 30,000 women undertake a surgical breast enlargement every year. Surgery may be done to enlarge existing breasts, replace absent breasts, or equalize the size of breasts in comparison to each other. Silicone versus Saline Breast Implants is an often debated topic in this field. The decision usually comes down to several factors including the feel of the breast you desire, the size of the implant, its placement in relation to muscle tissue, and your existing anatomy. A specialist will be able to advise on the advantages and comparisons between each type of implant, allowing you to make an informed choice. The surgery does require recovery time and patients should factor in recovery before planning any normal activities. High-impact activities such as running or other forms of exercise may need a more gradual return. Your specialist will be able to advise on the recovery times you may need depending on how invasive the surgery is.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a term that applies to numerous different procedures. The two most common types of liposuction are tumescent liposuction and ultrasonic-assisted liposuction.
- Tumescent liposuction begins with an injection of a saline solution and a numbing agent. The liquid and your fat are then sucked out of the body via cannulas.
- Ultrasonic-assisted liposuction uses ultrasonic waves to melt the fat which is then suctioned out of the body.
Liposuction is a very popular cosmetic surgical treatment as it can be used on many areas of the body. Liposuction will remove fat deposits, creating a shapelier body with better proportions and contours.
Abdominoplasty
The abdominoplasty procedure is often referred to as a tummy tuck or a lower body lift in the media. The surgery removes excess skin from the tummy and the remaining skin is then tightened around the abdomen. The procedure is often recommended for those who have excess skin due to weight loss, bariatric surgery, or after pregnancy. Abdominoplasty differs from liposuction as it does not remove excess fat but instead removes excess skin that may sag around the stomach. Most patients who undertake this surgery can return to daily activities like work after two or three weeks, however, the recovery process is longer if returning to more physical activity.
Breast Reduction
Reducing the size of your breasts is a procedure that can be undertaken for aesthetic reasons but it is more commonly performed to help women with back pain or poor posture. Some women have excessively large or heavy breasts that can put a strain on the back resulting in chronic pain and poor posture. Occasionally women may also suffer from mental health issues as it can be difficult to find clothing to fit and the constant back pain can restrict your lifestyle. Reduction mammaplasty is a procedure that can reduce both the size and weight of the breasts. Similar to breast augmentation, breast reduction may also be used to balance your breasts, permanently making them an equal size.
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is known in popular culture as a nose job. Famously, Rachel from Friends had a nose job and the popularity of this character helped the procedure to become more well known. Rhinoplasty is often described as reducing the size of a nose. However, the procedure is better described as reshaping the nose, bringing it into balance with the face. A surgeon may reduce the overall size but they can also reshape or refine specific areas in consultation with a patient. Rhinoplasty can be a medical requirement and may be offered as a treatment for a deviated septum or if breathing could be improved through a new nose shape. Rhinoplasty has a quick recovery time and most patients can return to work when any bruising fades.
Blepharoplasty
Eyelids can be reshaped for purely cosmetic reasons or to improve a patient’s vision.
- In top eyelids sagging skin may be removed as it obstructs eyesight or reduces the appearance of aging.
- In the bottom eyelids, the skin may be stretched to reduce wrinkling. Fat pads under the eyes that cause ‘bags’ to appear are also removed during lower lid surgery.
Often top and bottom eyelids are repaired at the same time. Eyelid surgery can often cause swelling that may take weeks or months to reduce down. Eyelid surgery is often one of the first procedures someone may undergo as the thin skin on the eyelid tends to show the first signs of aging.
Rhytidectomy
The facelift is a surgical solution to reduce overall wrinkling or sagging of the face. The facelift tightens the skin around the face as well as underlying muscles, smoothing out any wrinkle lines and reducing any apparent sagging. The facelift is often combined with other procedures such as a forehead lift or eyelid shaping. A facelift procedure should only be undertaken after consultation with a facial plastic surgeon who can advise on where the skins and muscles should be tightened or re-draped on your face. After facial surgery, you are recommended to keep your head elevated for two to three days to minimize swelling. Your surgeon will also give you clear instructions on your post-operative care and what activities are permitted and which you should restrict.
Forehead Lift
Forehead lifts are often misidentified as facelifts. A facelift pulls the skin around the area of eyes, nose, cheeks, and mouth whereas a forehead lift deals with the eyebrows and up to the hairline of the head. The forehead lift can correct forehead furrows, frown lines, droopy eyebrows, and hooded eyelids. A forehead lift will usually result in more elevated eyebrows that present a more youthful appearance. Most patients can get back to normal activity within ten days of surgery but recovery times may be more extensive if the surgery has been combined with other procedures.
Otoplasty
Otoplasty is a surgical procedure that improves the shape, position, or proportion of the ear. The surgery can be used to treat macrotia, which is the term used to describe oversized ears that are not in proportion to the head. Ears may also protrude with this condition. The surgery is typically accomplished by taking away a section of skin and cartilage within the crescent of the ear and reattaching the two sides with the section removed. However, surgeons may use other techniques depending on the particular deformity. A surgeon will consult with a patient to assess what procedures may be best to create the desired appearance of the ear.
If you are considering cosmetic surgery then you should always approach qualified and reputable medical professionals. A cosmetic surgeon will be willing to discuss with you the options available to you and will also take steps to ensure that no procedure will damage your health or wellbeing. It is recommended that you should become familiar with the work your surgeon has done in the past to be assured of their abilities. If you do have any queries or hesitations around a procedure you should always raise these before undergoing any treatment. A surgeon will also consult with you around post-operative care and the recovery process. It is always advisable that you stick to the recommended recovery plan to ensure the body is given proper time to recover and for the best long-term results.
