Cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic surgery, is a type of surgical specialty that consists of techniques and procedures to alter, restore, or reconstruct the human body. The goal of cosmetic surgery is to enhance appearance. This can include removing scars and/or birthmarks, enhancing proportion, improving symmetry, minimizing signs of a person aging, or simply improving overall aesthetic appeal. Cosmetic procedures are performed on all areas, but the head, neck, and upper body are common zones.
There are a wide variety of cosmetic surgery procedures. Some of the most common include breast enhancement, facial contouring, body contouring, and skin rejuvenation.
Wrinkle Removal
Wrinkle removal is one very popular type of plastic surgery. The main method of this surgery is using a paralysis toxin called botulinum on the affected areas. There are a number of brand names that produce this toxin in its usable form. The toxin, which is one of the most poisonous substances on the planet, is produced by a type of bacteria. The bacteria causes a very severe type of food poisoning that is commonly caused from cans that have been breached. One of the side effects of this food poisoning is paralysis.
While this sounds bad, there is a benefit to using it in small, diluted amounts. It can be injected directly into the muscles, causing weakening and paralysis. This has been approved for usage since the late 1980s, when scientists discovered that it could treat conditions such as uncontrolled blinking and lazy eye. Since then, doctors have successfully used the treatment over and over to treat age-related facial creases and wrinkles.
These procedures take mere minutes, and patients do not have to be put under or receive numbing treatment. The procedure, which involves an injection with a small needle, causes only minor discomfort. It may take between three and seven days to take full effect. Anyone who is taking anti-inflammatories or over the counter painkillers need to stop doing that before they continue with the procedure.
Facelift Surgery
Known clinically as rhytidectomy, a facelift is a surgical procedure that reduces the overall appearance of facial wrinkles and other common aging signs. The procedure is typically completed by a plastic surgeon, and involves lifting and tightening the muscles beneath the face to create a more contoured and aesthetically pleasing facial structure. The procedure also involves removing excess pockets of fat and/or skin that can contribute to sagging.
Neck Lift Surgery
A neck lift, also known as a lower rhytidectomy, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the look in the jawline as well as the neck area. This procedure can help people with excess fat and/or skin in their lower face, often called “jowls,” as well as those with loose neck skin, abnormal contours in the neck caused by muscle banding, and excess fatty deposits below the chin. This is a restorative surgery. While it cannot stop the overall aging process, it may improve the overall appearance of the lower face and neck.
Some patients opt for a neck lift instead of a full facelift because they feel they aren’t ready for a facelift. The neck may be a site of excess wrinkles, such as a double chin or “turkey wattle.” When this is the case and the neck doesn’t match the face, a neck lift surgery might be a good option.
