Plastic Surgery – Methods or Myths?

Have you ever wondered where the term “plastic” – as in “plastic surgery” – comes from? What comes to mind may be the myriad of fake, plastic items we are bombarded with in our daily lives. Actually, the English word “plastic” comes from the Greek word “plastos,” meaning “to mold.”

Plastic surgery has its fair share of legends and myths that seem to go round and round the media and internet tracks. Here are a few plastic surgery “facts” you may have heard and how they are, in fact, just myths:

• Liposuction is for weight loss – Nope. Liposuction is meant to remove pockets of fat – visualize “love handles” – that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s not meant to be a procedure for people that are looking for a speedy weight-loss solution.
• Plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery are one and the same – A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed five years in surgical training at an accredited hospital, with at least two of those years focusing on plastic surgery. Other physicians may have been trained to do cosmetic procedures in certain areas, but the level of training is not the same.
• Plastic surgery doesn’t leave scars – When an incision is made and skin is cut, the result of the incision is a scar. However, highly trained plastics surgeons, such as the surgeons at UMass Memorial Medical Group, can minimize the appearance of scars with precise technique and inconspicuous incision placement.
• Breast augmentation is a one-time event – Breast implants have a limited life-span that is usually around 10 to 15 years. Additionally, aging can cause augmented breasts to droop. You may find that you need a breast implant replacement procedure or a breast lift later on.
• Cost is the major consideration when contemplating plastic or cosmetic surgery – With reconstructive surgery the exception, most cosmetic surgery is elective and not covered by insurance. But cost shouldn’t be your only consideration. Your expectations and goals must be realistic. Furthermore, not all surgeons are experienced or qualified, so conducting research into your procedure and surgeon is a must!

Our board-certified surgeons are specialists and trained in the procedures they offer. We invite you to call for a consultation, today, to experience the highest level of patient care and satisfaction available in the Worcester area: (508) 334-5990.