Psychological Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery
On the surface, plastic surgery procedures appear to be skin deep. Having one’s body transformed would seem to be simply an aesthetic choice much like the clothes a person wears or the make-up they may apply to improve their appearance. The reality is that when a person chooses to have a cosmetic procedure done, it is often as much about how they feel as how they look.
Beyond the physical, cosmetic surgery can improve a person’s self image and their emotional/ psychological well being. A person who is happy with the way they look often feels better. Dr. Pinsky understands the balance between looking good and feeling good. As such, we would like to share some of the most common psychological benefits of aesthetic procedures:
- BODY SCULPTING SUCH AS LIPOSUCTION OR BODY LIFTS: Procedures such as liposuction, tummy tucks, or body lifts can be the end of a long journey for some patients. When a person loses a significant amount of weight whether through exercise or through surgery, such as gastric bypass surgery, the results can be loose and hanging skin or areas of the body that resist the transformation. This can leave a person healthier but still unhappy with their results. By sculpting the body to meet the new figure, a person can feel as though they have finally met their goal. Less self-conscious about their body, a person can feel more encouraged to continue to exercise in public to maintain their desired weight.
- BREAST AUGMENTATION/REDUCTION SURGERY: Breasts are associated with femininity, and when a woman is uncomfortable with her breasts it can make her very self-conscious. Breast augmentation, reduction, and/or lift, can help a woman gain confidence or restore what pregnancy may have changed. Many women also report an increased sex drive as a result of feeling more comfortable with their bodies.
- FACIAL REJUVENATION: While many people feel that aesthetic surgery is merely for those with a desire to stay young, facial procedures such as facelifts can improve a person’s confidence as well. More and more men are seeking out facial rejuvenation procedures to boost their confidence in the workplace. undergoing a facial procedure to have their outside match what they feel inside is giving many people, including men, the confidence they need to compete with younger people in the workplace.
- GYNECOMASTIA: Gynecomastia is breast reduction surgery for men. Men who suffer from enlarged breast tissue often feel less masculine or less confident. Treating gynecomastia boosts confidence both socially and professionally.
According to The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery, 70% of patients note “emotional and psychological rewards” after surgery. If you feel self-conscious about some aspect of your body, perhaps it is time for a change. Schedule a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Pinsky.