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Key facts
- Interested in cosmetic surgery to improve your appearance?
- Common procedures include tummy tuck, liposuction, breast implants, and facelift.
- Make sure your doctor is qualified before proceeding.
- Know the benefits, risks, and costs upfront.
Reconstructive surgery is often necessary to improve function or restore a person’s appearance after trauma, disease, or other health-related issues.
Some common examples of reconstructive surgery include breast reconstruction after a mastectomy, scar revision, and hand surgery to restore function after an injury.
Unlike cosmetic surgery, reconstructive surgery is typically considered medically necessary and may be covered by health insurance.
Both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery can have a significant impact on a person’s self-esteem and quality of life.
Who can perform cosmetic surgery?
Cosmetic surgery can be performed by plastic surgeons or trained doctors.
- Plastic surgeons are also skilled in reconstructive procedures.
What is the difference between plastic surgeons and other doctors who do cosmetic surgery?
Plastic surgeons undergo specialized training compared to general doctors who have limited cosmetic procedure capabilities. Plastic surgeons have extensive training in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, while general doctors may only have basic knowledge of cosmetic surgery.
Regulations on procedures by general doctors vary among states. It is important to research and ensure that your doctor is qualified to perform the specific cosmetic procedure you are interested in.
Where will my cosmetic surgery be done?
Some procedures require a licensed facility, so check with your state’s health department to confirm that the facility where your surgery will be performed is properly accredited. It is important to ensure that the facility meets all necessary safety standards for your procedure.
Should I speak to my doctor before having cosmetic surgery?
Prior to undergoing cosmetic surgery, consult with your doctor for planning and finding a suitable surgeon.
Use the Service Finder for locating health services.
Consider asking for recommendations from your primary care physician or friends who have undergone similar procedures.
Research the surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and reputation by checking online reviews or medical publications.
Consult with multiple surgeons to compare their approach, communication style, and expected outcomes.
Verify that the surgeon is board-certified and has privileges to perform the procedure at accredited facilities.
Ask about the surgeon’s success rates, complication rates, and post-operative care protocols.
What questions should I ask before I have cosmetic surgery?
Consider various factors before deciding on surgery, discuss risks with your doctor.
Prepare for your appointment using the Question Builder tool.
Body image and cosmetic surgery
Media and societal pressures can influence body image perception.
Focus on maintaining a healthy body rather than conforming to unrealistic beauty standards.
Think carefully about your motivations for considering cosmetic surgery.
What are some alternatives to cosmetic surgery?
Explore non-surgical options before opting for cosmetic surgery.
- Consider skin treatments or injectable fillers.
- Make lifestyle changes to improve your health.
- Try non-invasive procedures such as laser therapy or microdermabrasion.
- Consult with a dermatologist for recommendations on skincare products and treatments.
- Invest in good quality skincare products and establish a daily skincare routine.
What does it cost to have cosmetic surgery?
Request a cost estimate for your procedure as cosmetic surgery is typically not covered by insurance.
Should I have cosmetic surgery overseas?
Think twice before getting cosmetic surgery abroad due to potential risks and uncertainties.
Consider aspects like quality of care, travel insurance coverage, and practitioner qualifications.
Resources and support
Visit the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery and Medicine for more information on cosmetic procedures.
If concerned about surgery outcomes, contact the AHPRA Cosmetic Surgery Hotline.
Learn about body image with the Butterfly Foundation.
Get assistance by calling the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222.
Suspect someone had plastic surgery? Dr. Anthony Youn shares telltale signs on iStockPhoto.
It’s important to research and consult with qualified professionals before undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Always prioritize your health and well-being.
Look to the Ears
Look for surgical scars near the ears as a sign of a facelift.
Get advice on scar treatment if necessary.
It is important to closely examine the ears for any tell-tale signs of a facelift surgery, such as incision scars. These scars are usually well-hidden within the natural creases of the ears, but they may still be noticeable upon close inspection. If you notice any scars near the ears, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation and advice on scar treatment options.
Botox Brow
If a friendly co-worker suddenly seems angry, Botox injections could be the reason.
These injections can distort eyebrows, giving a “sinister look.”
Additional injections can correct this or wait it out as Botox is not permanent.
Surprise!
Are you surprised all the time and over 60? Seniors may have sagging eyelid skin that’s treated with surgery.
Check out Jocelyn Wildenstein, nicknamed “cat woman,” who has no eye bags at 62.
As we age, our skin loses its elasticity and can lead to sagging in various areas, including the eyelids. Eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty, is a common procedure among seniors to help rejuvenate their appearance and correct droopy eyelids.
Jocelyn Wildenstein is a famous example of someone who has undergone multiple cosmetic procedures, including eyelid surgery, to maintain a youthful look. While some may criticize her extreme transformation, it serves as a reminder that there are options available for individuals who wish to address aging concerns.
Raisin Ear
If you have wrinkly earlobes, surgeons can tighten the skin and create a smoother appearance with additional surgery.
In addition to surgery, there are also non-invasive procedures such as fillers or laser treatments that can help improve the appearance of wrinkly earlobes.
It’s important to consult with a qualified cosmetic surgeon to determine the best treatment option for your specific situation.
Puffy-Face Priscilla Presley
The “wind tunnel” look from excessive filler use is less common nowadays.
Fillers can give a puffy appearance that eventually fades away, or fat injections can remove excess filler.
Priscilla Presley shared her negative experiences with fillers.
Pixie Ear
While surgeons can tighten skin, earlobes may droop over time, necessitating further surgery.
Bunny Nosed Janet Jackson?
Want a smile like Jessica Rabbit? Botox injections can help, but be wary of creases when laughing or smiling.
Dr. Youn refers to Janet Jackson as having a “Botox Bunny Nose.”
No Turkey Neck?
If your neck skin is sagging, consider a facelift for a more youthful appearance.
Trout Pout
Swollen lips from new lipgloss? Ensure the lower lip is about 50% larger, as some variations could be from silicone injections.
Some young women purposely enhance their lips to resemble Lisa Rinna.
The Windswept Look by Joan Rivers
Still stuck with a wind tunnel look? Opt for a more natural result with modern fillers and fat grafting instead of an old-school face lift like Joan Rivers did.
Before making a final decision about a procedure, have a face-to-face consultation.
- Get details on the procedures being considered.
- Check the qualifications and training of the practitioner.
- Ensure they are a member of a relevant professional association.
- Learn about common complications and aftercare instructions.
- Understand post-procedure expectations, including appearance and recovery.
After your consultation
Take your time to decide on the procedure, and request a leaflet summarizing the information.
Things to avoid
Make sure to have a consultation before making any payments for the procedure.
Avoid group treatments, alcohol consumption before the appointment, online deals, mobile services, and practitioners solely found on social media.
Check the person is qualified
To verify a practitioner’s qualifications, ensure they are registered with a specialist association and trained in the relevant procedures.
Cosmetic surgery
Check Clinic Registration
All facilities offering cosmetic surgery in England should be registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Verify their registration or request to see their certificate.
The CQC provides quality ratings online, and staff should have appropriate training.
Medical Professionals
Only registered doctors are permitted to perform cosmetic surgery in England.
Check a doctor or surgeon’s registration on the General Medical Council online register.
Some surgeons may hold a cosmetic surgery certificate from the Royal College of Surgeons, indicating they meet national standards.
Look out for surgeons affiliated with professional associations like BAAPS or BAPRAS.
Cosmetic dental treatment
If considering cosmetic dental work, select a dental professional registered with the General Dental Council (GDC).
Review the GDC guidelines on dental treatment regulations in the UK.
Non-surgical procedures and other professionals
Check if other professionals offering cosmetic procedures are listed on a voluntary register accredited by the PSA.
Practitioners meeting specific training, insurance, and skill standards are registered with JCCP.
Professional associations like BACN or BCAM establish competence, training, and insurance standards for their members. Look for a practitioner on their respective website.
Advice on botulinum toxin injections (such as Botox)
Botulinum toxin injections like Botox or Dysport are prescription-only medicines.
A healthcare professional must prescribe them after consultation, but the injector doesn’t necessarily have to be the prescriber.
Ensure your injector is properly trained and qualified.
Know the prescriber, injector, their training, experience, and insurance arrangements.
Advice on dermal fillers
Dermal fillers, including lip fillers, have various applications and might not always require a prescription.
Ask the practitioner about the product source and their qualifications.
- Avoid practitioners with limited training in the procedure.
Complications from dermal fillers can be severe, so choose your provider wisely.