Cosmetic Surgery

Overview

Cosmetic surgery is a type of surgery that changes a person's physical appearance. It is usually not medically necessary and is done to help a person feel better about how they look. It can involve reshaping body parts, such as the nose, breasts, or abdomen, or improving a feature that a person is unhappy with. The goal is to improve how a person looks and sometimes how they feel about themselves.

Cosmetic surgery is very common worldwide. Millions of procedures are performed each year, from small operations to more complex ones. It is more popular than ever, especially among adults who want to improve their appearance.

It affects people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Some people choose cosmetic surgery after weight loss, pregnancy, or ageing. Younger adults often seek it for changes they have felt unhappy about since adolescence. Older adults may choose it to address signs of ageing. Both men and women undergo cosmetic surgery.

Symptoms

Common symptoms

• Feeling self-conscious or unhappy about a particular body part
• Low self-esteem linked to appearance
• A strong desire to change a physical feature

Causes

Main causes

• A wish to change a physical feature that a person is unhappy with
• Desire to improve self-esteem or confidence
• A wish to restore a body area changed by pregnancy, weight loss, or ageing
• Comparing oneself with others or with media images

Risk factors

• Smoking, which slows healing and raises the risk of complications
• Being very overweight or underweight
• Chronic health conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, or high blood pressure
• Unrealistic expectations about what surgery can achieve
• Taking certain medicines that affect bleeding or healing, such as blood thinners

When to see a doctor

See a doctor urgently if:

• If you have undergone surgery and develop severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of a serious allergic reaction
• If you feel unwell, faint, or have a racing heart after surgery

Book a routine appointment if:

• If you are thinking about cosmetic surgery, see a registered healthcare professional for an honest discussion
• If you have any health conditions that could affect surgery, discuss them with your GP
• If you have questions about the risks and benefits, ask before making a decision

Diagnosis

Cosmetic surgery is not a diagnosis. However, before any surgery, a full health assessment is needed. Your doctor will ask about your medical history, medications, and any conditions that could affect surgery. They will also discuss your reasons for wanting the procedure and what you hope to achieve.

Tests that may be done

• Blood tests to check your general health
• An electrocardiogram (ECG) to check your heart rhythm, if needed
• Photographs and measurements of the area to be treated
• Sometimes, a mental health review to ensure you are making an informed decision

What to expect at your appointment

Your doctor or surgeon will examine you and confirm whether you are a suitable candidate. They will explain the procedure, lifestyle changes you may need to make, and the likely recovery time. You should be given plenty of time to ask questions.

Treatment

Treatments for cosmetic concerns range from non-surgical procedures to full surgery. The right choice depends on the area you want to change, your overall health, and what you hope to achieve. A qualified specialist can guide you, but the final decision is always yours.

Self-care at home

• Stop smoking at least six to eight weeks before surgery, as this greatly improves healing
• Keep a stable, healthy weight before your procedure
• Plan for time off work and for help at home during recovery
• Follow your surgeon's pre-operative instructions carefully
• Arrange for transportation to and from the surgery

Medical treatments

Medical treatments include a range of options, such as dermal fillers, laser treatments, chemical peels, and surgical procedures. Fillers are injections that smooth wrinkles or add volume. Lasers can improve skin texture or remove hair. Surgery involves cutting into tissues to reshape or remove areas. The exact treatment depends on the procedure and should be discussed with a specialist. Pain management after surgery may include simple pain relief as recommended by your healthcare team. Do not take any new medicine without checking with your healthcare team.

When is surgery considered?

Surgery is considered when non-surgical options cannot achieve the desired change, or when a person wants a permanent correction. Common operations include breast surgery, liposuction, rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), and eyelid surgery. These are major operations and require a period of healing.

Living with this condition

After surgery, recovery times vary. You may have swelling, bruising, and some pain. You will need to rest and follow your surgeon's advice about dressing changes, ice packs, and when to move around. Give yourself time to heal and do not rush back to work or exercise.

Lifestyle tips

• Do not smoke, as it slows healing and increases risks
• Avoid alcohol for at least a few weeks, as it can interfere with healing
• Wear any compression garments or dressings recommended by your surgeon
• Attend all follow-up appointments
• Protect scars from strong sunlight for at least a year

Diet and exercise

Eat a balanced diet rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals to support healing. Drink plenty of water. Avoid strenuous exercise until your surgeon says it is safe. Walking is usually encouraged early, but heavy lifting and intense workouts should wait until you've been cleared.

Mental health and emotional wellbeing

Surgery can be emotionally challenging. You may feel great initially, but then feel depressed or anxious as you recover. You might worry about your results. It is important to have realistic expectations. Remember that surgery is not a cure for low mood or negative body image. If you notice persistent sadness, difficulty sleeping, or loss of interest, speak to your doctor.

Prevention

Cosmetic surgery cannot be 'prevented' because it is not a disease. However, you can reduce the chances of complications by choosing a qualified, accredited surgeon, having an honest pre-surgical assessment, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.

Complications

If left untreated

• If a serious complication, such as an infection, is not treated, it can spread and cause further damage
• Blood clotting problems can become dangerous if not assessed
• Scarring that is not managed can become permanent or raised

Long-term outlook

Most people who undergo cosmetic surgery are generally satisfied with the improvement in a specific area. However, results are not always exactly as expected. The most important factor is to have realistic goals. Many people feel more confident and comfortable after their procedure. Good communication with your surgeon is key to a positive experience.

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