The culture we live in influences how we see beauty. Since ancient times, people have been on quests for the secret formula to what they deemed attractive. Statistics show that in the 21st Century, women spend an average of $144 per year on cosmetics.
Plastic surgery can be a good option for those who wish to improve their appearance. Some people may even believe that cosmetic dental procedures like braces are a form of plastic surgery. People who consult a doctor should understand their expectations as well as the risks involved. Achieving successful cosmetic surgery results is possible with a doctor’s help. If we understand the influence of modern culture on our perceptions about beauty, then we can better understand the process.
This article will examine how standards and perceptions of beauty can affect plastic surgery practice and results.
Changes in Beauty Standards
Over generations, the beauty culture has changed our expectations of what’s attractive. Buzzfeed published a report that showed how standards of beauty have changed dramatically over the past 3,000 years. Even in the past half-century, our standards of beauty have changed dramatically.
The ideal fashion model today is slim with straight teeth thanks to clear braces, or Invisalign. In the 1950s, however, the “perfect” figure was a slightly plump hourglass-shaped woman. In the 1960s and 1970s, models had a more boyish, slender physique. What we find beautiful has changed dramatically every decade. It is important to note that the shifting standards are a sign that there is no perfection in beauty.
These ideas of beauty, even though there isn’t a clear definition of what’s attractive, have an effect on the body image of young people. The cosmetics industry has been booming, with new cosmetic cream production equipment sold every day. It doesn’t affect only women: male beauty standards can also influence men.
Men may be looking for products that increase muscle mass, while women are searching for ways to lose weight quickly. The way we view our physical appearance can affect the quality of life. You should be aware of the risks involved in cosmetic surgery.
Plastic Surgery Can Be Harmful
Physical complications can occur if the procedure isn’t done properly or by a professional. The complications can be anything from chronic pains to disfigurement. Unscrupulous doctors can cause patients to die or even lose their savings. In addition, health insurance does not cover cosmetic surgery. Achieving successful cosmetic surgery results is very possible with the help of a reputable professional.
The negative psychological effects that can occur after the procedure are even more concerning to plastic surgeons and patients. Low self-esteem and unsatisfactory outcomes can be a major cause of distress.
Mental distress can affect a patient’s life. It can, for example, delay your return date to work. This can also delay the healing process. Even simple procedures like hair loss treatments can take months to heal. Even if you take good care of your mouth and use dental gel, it can take braces more than two year to straighten your teeth.
The study showed that after and during surgery, patients may be more hostile and anxious towards those around them.
Existing psychological problems can worsen after plastic surgery. Cosmetic surgeons should screen patients for these conditions to avoid complications. Achieving successful cosmetic surgery results happens with both the mind and body are taken care of.
Pop Culture and Body Image
By examining pop culture’s impact on self-image, we can reduce some of these psychological challenges. Today, many young people suffer from mental disorders that are related to misconceptions of beauty. Anorexia and bulimia are some of the disorders that young people suffer from.
According to one study, 40 percent of girls aged between nine and ten had already attempted to lose weight at that age. Five to ten millions adolescent girl have borderline eating disorders. Both males and women die from Bulimia or Anorexia Nervosa.
In the past, television and other conventional media were blamed for causing misconceptions about physical appearance. In recent years, however, a more accessible and new medium has replaced the traditional tools. Twitter and Facebook are important digital platforms that influence how young people view beauty.
Social media has a major impact on social comparisons. Surveys reveal that 98% are made against people who are perceived as being of a higher status. Digital platforms have led to unrealistic expectations about wealth, career, physical appearance, and physique.
Social media also has a direct impact on the self-esteem of teenagers. Many teenagers have unrealistic expectations about their physical appearance. In the meantime, parents and teachers do not realize how digital tools have magnified peer pressure exponentially.
Today, the pressure on young people is greater than it was when social influence came from only movies and magazines. Sadly, teenagers are often the target of misconceptions as they enter adulthood. They are trying figure out who and what they are. They can be affected by the distress they feel for a long time.
There are also a variety of products available online that take advantage of those who are vulnerable. Dehumidifiers, for example, can be used to improve skin in winter. Unscrupulous internet sellers can offer you products that are not only useless but also dangerous for your health. Even a seemingly straightforward process such as applying permanent makeup can cause great emotional distress to teenagers.
Plastic procedures are beneficial for health
Plastic surgery, despite its negative image, can be a positive influence on the lives of ordinary people. Cosmetic surgery encompasses a variety of procedures. These procedures can include treating a cleft lip or foot pain in people who have had an accident.
Both adults and children can benefit from reconstructive surgeries. Many people would be forced to live with the scars and deformities caused by calamities and traumas if these procedures were not available.
Even cosmetic procedures can make a difference in the life of a patient. In America, cosmetic surgeons perform breast augmentation on a regular basis. Breast augmentation can be viewed as a vanity procedure, performed to improve one’s appearance. Breast augmentation has been shown to improve the mental and physical well-being of women. Reduced breast size can improve self-esteem, and even reduce anxiety. This can eliminate problems like back pain, headaches and difficulty moving.
Even procedures performed primarily for cosmetic purposes can be beneficial to your health. Invisalign braces, for example, can improve your self-esteem, and make you more social. Straighter teeth can also make it easier to clean them and keep you healthier.
In the same way, cosmetic surgery such as mammoplasty, nose-repair, and other procedures can change a person’s life. If it improves their self-esteem, many new mothers with sagging skin may opt for a stomach tuck. The majority of them don’t even require the patient to undergo a lengthy procedure that requires him or her to go under the shaver. Modern practitioners are able to make tiny incisions, so the wound can heal quickly.
The advancements in technology have also improved the quality and safety associated with cosmetic surgery. Laser devices, for example, are precision tools that make procedures less invasive than they were decades ago. High accuracy minimizes errors and reduces the size of incisions needed for the procedure.
Managing pain is a challenge with most modern medical procedures. Prescription drugs used to manage pain and prevent infection can have adverse effects. Sometimes they cause dependence or magnify symptoms.
Scientists have been researching non-pharmacological ways to reduce pain and other serious symptoms. These programs require large data centers to store and power electronic devices. According to some studies, holistic methods such as mindfulness mediation and acupuncture can be effective in treating mild pain. They can complement other remedies and have the potential to replace existing medication in future.
Cosmetic Procedures: Managing the Risks
Cosmetic procedures are not without risk. Some people feel happier after undergoing recovery. Some people feel they shouldn’t have even tried. Medical professionals have the necessary training to identify and mitigate such risks.
You must be a patient who does your research. The surgeon you select can sometimes make all the differences. It is important to be well-informed about what to expect at the appointment. This is because some aspects of the procedure are subjective. Clients have different opinions about the visible contour lines on their face, the asymmetry in facial features and minor scarring.
Some physical complications that are common to most medical procedures include:
1. Infections
2. Excessive bleeding
3. Blood Clots
4. Pneumonia
5. Nerve damage and sensation loss
Psychological effects, however, can have a greater effect on your well-being. Your surgeon will assess your mental state to determine whether you are a good candidate for the surgery.
Body Dysmorphic Disorder is a condition that cosmetic surgeons should be on the lookout for. Body Dysmorphic disorder is characterized by a preoccupation with perceived physical defects. People with this disorder are usually unhappy with the cosmetic results. The process may be repeated several times before the person is satisfied.
The higher the number of times a patient undergoes the same procedure, both physically and psychologically, the greater the risk. About 2% of people have Body Dysmorphic disorder. This disorder affects people from all walks in life.
Even those without a serious mental condition such as BDD might not be mentally ready for cosmetic surgery. Divorce and loss of loved ones can cause emotional turmoil, which may influence the decision-making process.
A professional cosmetic surgeon will ask you questions during your consultation to determine the reasons behind your desire for cosmetic changes. Do they have low self-esteem or are they motivated by insecurity? What impact do you think cosmetic changes will have on your life? What would you do if the results were not satisfactory? Are you aware of any potential risks associated with the procedure?
A surgeon will also manage your expectations. This is especially important when it comes to procedures that aren’t medically required. Patients may be misled by misleading images and photos on the internet about how they should expect their results to appear. Medical professionals can show you the best possible result.
Some surgeons determine that the patient requires counseling for both men and women. Mental health professionals may refer patients with depression, anxiety or low self-esteem to them. Counseling can save you a lot in terms of emotional pain and future suffering.
How to weigh the risks and returns
Plastic surgery is not without risks. The challenges are manageable, just as they are with many other medical procedures. You can eliminate the majority of problems by planning ahead and being organized. Some procedures can be beneficial for our health, even if they are not life-changing. Achieving successful cosmetic surgery results happens when the patient enters the procedure with open eyes.
After a mastectomy, a woman with breast cancer may find a renewed sense of self-confidence and a new lease on life. Patients with visible deformities who receive counseling from both men and women can gain confidence. When a practice is committed to high standards, it can often produce positive results, sometimes even transformational.
You should weigh the risks and benefits of cosmetic procedures. Remember that different clients may perceive results differently. Speak to your surgeon about whether your expectations may be unrealistic.
In conclusion
When your health is the best, it is also recommended to have cosmetic surgery. Achieving successful cosmetic surgery results happens when you give your body time to heal, even for small incisions for non-invasive procedures. To avoid complications, follow the instructions of your surgeon for recovery and preparation. Remember that perfect beauty is not possible. Raise a glass to those who choose cosmetic surgery to improve their health. It is important to maintain a positive attitude throughout the healing process.
