Want to change your appearance? Let's learn about cosmetic surgery!

We all think about our appearance, don't we? Sometimes when we look in the mirror, we think, "Oh, if only my nose were a little more defined...", "How nice it would be if I didn't have those wrinkles on my face?" Or "If only I could get rid of that extra belly fat...". It's at times like these that many people start thinking about cosmetic surgery, or as we all know it, ' Cosmetic Surgery '. So today, let's talk about all of this, in a very simple way.

Simply put, what is cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgery is a medical procedure that is performed to improve, change, or reshape the appearance of a part of your body. The important thing here is that this is not done as a treatment for a disease , but purely for the purpose of improving appearance (aesthetics) . Just like renovating an old house and painting it a nice color, this is something you do to beautify or change a part of your body that you like.

Many people turn to this to relieve their self-consciousness about their appearance and increase their self-confidence. However, it is important to remember that, like any surgery, there are potential side effects and complications . In addition, such surgeries are not usually covered by health insurance.

What are the main types of these surgeries?

Cosmetic procedures can be divided into two main categories: those that require surgery and those that do not require surgery.

In what situations does one think about this?

Cosmetic surgery is not a treatment for a disease. However, in some cases, a person may be tempted to consider it. For example:

• Dissatisfaction with the appearance of a certain part of the body.
• Correct a congenital developmental anomaly, such as breast asymmetry.
• Treat any complications that may have arisen after an accident or illness.
• Imagine that you went from being very fat to being very thin. Then maybe you have loose skin. Get rid of that loose skin .
• Get rid of fat in places on your body that you can't get rid of with exercise or diet.

How do you prepare before surgery?

If you are considering any cosmetic surgery, you should first meet and discuss it with a specialist, a cosmetic surgeon.

Your doctor there:

• He listens carefully to understand what your goals are.
• They will ask about your medical history and any other illnesses you may have.
• Explains which method best suits your purpose.
• You will be informed about what to expect from the surgery and realistic outcomes .
• It will also explain possible side effects . This is the best time to ask any questions you may have.

In addition, there are some things you may need to do before surgery:

• If you smoke, stop it.
• Doing things like certain blood tests .
• Taking certain medications prescribed by the doctor.
• Temporarily stopping some medications you are currently taking. ( Important: Do not stop or change any medications you are taking without your doctor's advice.)
• Fasting from the night before the surgery.
• Arrange for someone to take you home after surgery.

What are the benefits and risks?

Like any medical procedure, this one has benefits as well as risks.

Now let's look at the risks.

How to reduce the risk?

The best way to reduce the risk of complications is to follow your doctor's instructions carefully . Follow the instructions carefully before and after surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a balanced diet, and avoiding smoking will help you recover quickly.

When should I see the doctor?

After surgery, notify your doctor immediately, especially if you notice signs of infection.

Symptoms of an infection:

• Bleeding, pus-like fluid , or skin discoloration from the surgical wound.
• Fever .
• Severe pain that cannot be controlled even with painkillers.
• Severe swelling .

The difference between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery

Many people confuse the two.

• Cosmetic Surgery: These are done solely to improve appearance . These are elective.
• Reconstructive Surgery: These are performed to repair damage caused by an accident, illness (e.g., reconstruction after a breast is removed due to cancer), or birth, or to improve the function of a body part.

Every year, millions of people around the world undergo cosmetic surgery to improve their appearance. While it can improve your appearance, it's important to have realistic expectations. If you're considering it, talk to a qualified doctor, understand the benefits and risks, and make an informed decision that's right for you.