As many individuals are increasingly trying to enhance their self-esteem, improve their outward looks, and address the issue of photodamage due to aging, there has been a significant increase in the number of individuals who are undergoing cosmetic (i.e., plastic) surgery procedures. As a result of the many advances in both technology and surgical techniques, the majority of all popular types of surgical and non-surgical treatments are now being performed with greater safety and with a more natural appearance than in the past. Thus, each procedure varies significantly, and understanding what the details of each type of surgical treatment are is an important part of deciding which one is right for you.
If you are considering a plastic surgery procedure in Richmond, VA, you should first educate yourself about the specifics of that procedure, and then carefully choose your surgeon and practice (e.g. “Best Plastic Surgeons In DC”) to ensure both optimal outcomes and appropriate management of your expectations.
The Continued Acceptance and Increased Popularity of Plastic Surgery
Cosmetic procedures (both surgical and nonsurgical) have been continuously increasing in popularity over the last several years. For example, rhinoplasty and facelift surgeries (i.e. facial surgeries), such as facelifts, neck lifts, brow lifting, etc., have become some of the most commonly sought after surgeries due to patients preferring facial rejuvenation procedures that will produce a softer, more natural appearance and less of a dramatic change in their facial features than “old-school” techniques.
Some of the major factors that have led to the increasing popularity of cosmetic procedures are:
- The Heightened Level Of Awareness Due To Digital Photography And Shared Media
- The Availability Of Advanced Techniques And Posttreatment Recovery Options
- The Increasingly Positive Attitudes Of Society Towards Cosmetic Surgery
- The Desire To Obtain A Long-Term Outcome With A Surgical Look As Opposed To A Temporary Fix Through Injuries/Eruptions
Patients will have a better idea of what procedure they are interested in based on the above list of the most common procedures that are performed. Facelifts (rhytidectomies) are the most commonly performed procedure; therefore, the most common surgical plastic cosmetic procedure to address visible signs of aging on an individual’s face and neck. Examples of the Areas that a Facelift is Most Effective
Facelift Benefits
A Facelift Can Restore A Youthful Contour To The Face For The Following Reasons:
- Droopy cheeks
- Deep lines around the mouth and nose area (perioral folds)
- Loose skin along the jawline
- Aging of the lower face and neck
- Long-term rejuvenation of the facial structure
Unlike fillers and/or Botox, which temporarily improve the appearance of the skin surface by filling in creases, lines, or wrinkles and/or paralyzing the muscles under the skin, a facelift provides long-term structural renovation/result (i.e., the underlying tissue has been repositioned, therefore results will last longer than those obtained by means of fillers or Botox).
Important Facts to Know
Although a facelift cannot prevent aging from continuing to occur, it can re-position the tissues of your face/neck to achieve a more youthful appearance; patients may want to consider additional treatment (e.g., fillers, laser resurfacing) for fine wrinkles or other changes of texture occurring with age, which may require additional procedures.
Potential Risks Associated With A Facelift Include The Following:
- Bleeding or infection
- Scarring
- Temporary damage to a nerve
- Swelling/bruising following surgery
While complications are uncommon, planning properly for a facelift and choosing a qualified surgeon can greatly reduce the chances of complications occurring.
A Brow Lift (Elevation of the Eyebrows) is Another Way to Improve Your Appearance
As you age, gravity and repetitive facial expressions often result in a droopy brow/eyebrow area (also referred to as brow or eyebrow ptosis), causing the following symptoms:
- Hooded/heavy upper eyelids (ptosis)
- Deep furrows/wrinkles between the eyebrows (number 11 lines)
- Deep horizontal furrows/wrinkles (forehead lines) on the forehead
By re-positioning the eyebrows and softening expression lines in the brow, a brow lift offers patients a more youthful, alert appearance.
Things to Consider When Deciding on a Brow Lift
Modern brow lift techniques utilize small incision(s) or endoscopic instruments and therefore result in less noticeable scarring and shorter recovery times. However, there are some risks to consider, including but not limited to:
- Infection or bleeding
- Hair loss near the incision line
- Nerve injury affecting movement of the face
- Changes in sensation of the skin
A thorough discussion of the goals and expectations with an experienced surgeon, such as one of the Best Plastic Surgeons in Washington, DC, will help determine if a brow lift is the best option or if non-surgical options could potentially work.
Neck Lift
A neck lift is a surgical procedure that addresses the loose skin and/or excess fat on the neck area beneath the chin and along the jawline, also commonly referred to as turkey neck.
Why Are Neck Lifts Becoming More Popular?
Patients seeking for more than just a facial rejuvenation often want to improve their entire appearance. A youthful and defined jawline, as well as smooth neck, is an integral part of the overall facial aesthetic.
The new trend towards neck lifts is gaining momentum, particularly among individuals who have lost a lot of weight or have experienced skin laxity due to aging.
What is Involved in a Neck Lift Procedure?
A neck lift may include:
- Excision of excess skin
- Tightening of underlying neck muscles
- Liposuction to remove obvious fat deposits
Typically, the surgery is performed in conjunction with a facelift to provide an overall more complete rejuvenation.
What to Expect During Recovery
Within a few weeks of surgical procedures, the majority of individuals will be able to return to their normal activities and lifestyles, even though it may take several months for full recovery.
Using the Best Plastic Surgeons in Washington, DC will greatly assist the surgeon in achieving a natural looking result for their patient by using surgical techniques that fit their specific anatomy.
Botox and Other Non-Surgical Procedures
Surgical procedures are still popular, and one of the most popular non-surgical procedures performed worldwide is through the use of Botox. and can be used for temporary relief of:
- Forehead wrinkles
- Crow’s feet around your eye
- Brow line wrinkles between your brows
Botox is also medically useful for reducing migraines and excessive sweating.
Botox is generally very appealing to people looking to quickly fix their appearance because it is non-invasive and has minimal downtime.
Important Things To Know
Even though Botox is non-surgical, it still requires skill and expertise to achieve a natural-looking result.
Some important facts to consider when deciding whether to get Botox are:
- The effects of Botox last for three to four months
- If Botox is over-used, it can create an unnatural look
- Maintenance treatment is often necessary to maintain and/or prolong the results
Many patients will continue to use Botox in conjunction with surgical procedures.
Selecting a Competent Plastic Surgeon
Choosing the right plastic surgeon is probably the most significant decision that a person can make when it comes to cosmetic surgery.
You should seek a doctor:
- Who is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
- Who has extensive experience performing the specific procedure (s) that you desire
- Has provided potential patients with before/after pictures of his or her previous patients
- Demonstrates genuine interest in you and realizes that the best communication starts with an initial consultation to exchange ideas and concerns over your potential treatment
When you are able to review the surgical outcome data, the patient satisfaction scores and other factors, it will provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision in regards to selecting your medical professional.
Consulting with plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C., allows you to take advantage of individualized treatment plans tailored directly to meet your unique facial structures, aesthetic goals and other needs and desires.
How To Understand The Risks And Safety
As with any surgical procedure there are always some level of risk. When you understand the risk of your procedure, this will allow you to make an informed decision as to whether or not you choose to undergo the procedure. Factors Considered During Plastic Surgery
- Medical History & Overall Health
- Smoking & Nicotine Use
- Blood-Thinning Medication Usage
- Realistic Expectations for Results
Example: Smokers often experience longer healing times and more complications after undergoing certain surgeries (e.g. facelift).
Surgeons will conduct a thorough evaluation to determine whether or not the patient is ready for surgery.
Preparation for Plastic Surgery:
Good preparation is essential for a successful outcome; thus, patients should be educated about how to prepare prior to having any procedure performed on them.
In preparing for surgery, patients should do the following:
- Do Not Take Certain Medications or Supplements Before the Procedure
- Do Not Smoke or Use Nicotine Products
- Make Transportation & Post-Operation Care Arrangements
- Follow Pre-Operative Hygiene Directions
Careful preparation can help to reduce complications and facilitate a smoother recovery for people that undergo surgery.
Recovering From Plastic Surgery & Long-Term Results
Patients’ recovery time from surgery will vary by type of procedure; however, on average, patients should anticipate the following:
Swelling/Bruising
- Discomfort (for a limited duration)
- An Improvement In Their Appearance (Gradual)
After your procedure is completed, attending follow-up appointments will be key to ensure the patient heals properly and to address any concerns the patient may have.
Long-term results are affected by many factors including but not limited to:
- Age/Quality of Skin
- Lifestyle Habits
- Amount of Sun Exposure
- Weight Changes
Many patients can have their results maintained for several years through diet/exercise and through periodic maintenance treatments.
Setting Realistic Expectations:
A key component of having cosmetic surgery is establishing realistic expectations.
While cosmetic surgery can enhance the way you look and restore youthful features, it will not stop the aging process or completely change your underlying facial bone structure.
The best surgical outcomes will occur when the patient and surgeon have both established clear and realistic goals.
The best plastic surgeons in Washington, D.C. are able to provide patients with honest and realistic input regarding what their surgical options are and what to expect from them.
Plastic surgery offers a variety of options to those who are interested in enhancing their appearance and/or minimizing the signs of aging. Procedures such as facelifts, browlifts, necklifts, and Botox all offer surgical and non-surgical options for rejuvenation.
What’s most important, however, is to educate yourself about the advantages/disadvantages of each procedure and the terms associated with the procedure you wish to have, so you can select a plastic surgeon that has experience performing your specific procedure(s). When choosing a plastic surgeon in the Washington, D.C. area, it is critical to find a highly-qualified professional to ensure that you receive high quality care and produce a natural result, so that you can continue to feel good about your appearance for many years to come.
