At one time plastic surgery was only accessible to the rich and famous because they were the only segment of society with the financial resources to pay for them. In years past, the bulk of plastic surgeries were for reconstructive reasons, not for aesthetics.
Now the balance is tipped in the other direction. Today, there are numerous finance companies which are able to offer credit for most anyone who wants the gratification of a cosmetic surgery but who do not have the cash on hand to cover the expense for these surgical procedures.
People are becoming more and more interested with enhancing their bodies in order to fit the current beauty standard being set by Hollywood, the media, and pop culture. It is important to note that these procedures are not essential for survival but serve primarily as a tool to boost self-esteem and body image.
We all know that the intangible self-esteem plays a huge role in quality of life. We must understand the outside influences put on us for physical appearance, and while cosmetic surgery has been said to be a tremendous benefit to confidence, physical perfection through surgery is not feasible. An artistic surgeon can do beautiful sculpting, but it's important to discuss with your surgeon your goals and to understand the realistic possible outcomes.
The general public is constantly bombarded by images of celebrities who appear flawless and ageless. Who wouldn't like to look like them? Many of these celebrities attain this perfect image with the help of plastic surgery and additional help from touch up artists. Without these, they would look like the average Jane or Joe and that would not garner ratings.
Reality TV shows and cable medical programs that appeal to people's vanity have provided some fuel for this recent cosmetic surgery boom. People from all walks of life are now turning to plastic surgeons to improve their appearance, which many believe may enhance career prospects or improve social opportunities.
People are also turning to finance companies in record numbers so that they can fulfill their dreams for a new nose or a wrinkle free complexion. The finance companies have designed specialized programs just for this cosmetic industry with a variety of interest rates and loan payment schedules. Your surgeon may have a partnership with one company, and (s)he will be able to recommend a reputable one.
Most health insurance will not cover these cosmetic procedures unless it is done to correct a congenital abnormality that affects their health or a disfigurement sustained from a serious injury.
As more and more people learn more about the latest advances in plastic surgery they are requesting multiple procedures and becoming very lingo savvy as a result. This education is very beneficial to the patient-doctor relationship. An educated patient can discuss in detail his or her goals and desires. This can help the surgeon provide better care and design a procedure to produce results closest to what you want.
If cosmetic surgery sounds like the right move for you, make sure you do your research and select a surgeon with proven expertise in the procedure you want done. Make sure your expectations are reasonable and take the opportunity to discuss the risks and restrictions that you need to be aware of prior to the procedure.
By: Abigail Aaronson
