The Five Myths of Cosmetic Surgery


Over time, cosmetic surgery has become more accessible: it is no longer just available to the wealthy and famous. While information about cosmetic surgery is freely available, some common myths prevail. So, here are five common myths of cosmetic surgery:

Breast implants interfere with breast feeding and can cause cancer

This is definitely not true. Many women with breast implants are able to breast feed their children – it all depends on the type of procedure your surgeon has performed. The silicon implants do not cause any harm to a breast-feeding baby either. The same goes for cancer risk from silicone implants: there is no increased risk of developing breast cancer following breast augmentation plastic surgery.

Plastic surgery is a cheat: diet and exercise are key to the perfect body

It is true that a good diet and regular exercise are vital for a healthy mind and improve appearance and to boost self-esteem. For example, people usually turn to tummy tuck surgery, to remove loose skin following pregnancy or after losing weight. This extra skin will hang around, unless it is removed – there is no other way of dealing with it. The same rationale applies to liposuction, which can target discreet problem areas that do not respond to diet and exercise.

It is easy to tell that someone has had cosmetic surgery

Yes, there are celebrities who seek an obvious artificially enhanced appearance, but most people seek a natural look. A good plastic surgeon aims to leave little trace of their work, which means it is usually not obvious that you have had plastic surgery.

Treatment for fine lines and wrinkles is just as good as a facelift

While treatments is useful in smoothing out fine lines and wrinkles, it has no effect on sagging skin. For this, facelift surgery is required.

Cosmetic surgery is risk-free

As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Going under a general anaesthesia, potential complications such as infection and potential side effects such as scarring are all to be considered before going under the knife. You can mitigate against many of these risks by carefully choosing your surgeon: one who is registered with the General Medical Council as a cosmetic or plastic surgery specialist and who has plenty of experience in the field.

Do not be tempted by cheap alternatives offered by beauty salons and spas, as these practitioners are not medically qualified and will not have the training, experience or resources to perform surgery safely or to deal adequately with any complications.

Your surgeon will explain to you the benefits and risks of any procedure you are considering and will advise you whether surgery is the best course of action for you. Bear in mind that the benefits of potential results need to be weighed up with potential risks, which means that you may have to make changes to your lifestyle, such as stopping smoking or losing weight, before your surgeon agrees that it will be safe to operate. A properly qualified surgeon will always put your best interests first.

About Ramsay Health Care

At Ramsay Health Care we are proud to work in partnership with some of the highest qualified and experienced ophthalmologist, orthopaedic surgeons, neurosurgeons, pain management consultants and physiotherapists in the UK. Our holistic care offers you the best treatment!

At Ramsay you won’t have to wait for an appointment for your cosmetic surgery. Your treatment may be covered by medical insurance and self-pay packages are available on request. We have first class facilities and all self-funding and most privately insured patients can enjoy our Private Patient Pledge offering exclusive benefits including superb food, a relaxing environment, priority access and appointments to suit your lifestyle. Our aim is to help you feel like a guest as well as a patient.

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