Cosmetic surgical procedures are on the rise in the US. It is no longer a realm of only celebrities or socialists. While there are “love your body” slogans everywhere on the internet, statistics disagree. People are more than keen to shell out their money on plastic surgeries.

Teenagers have enough reasons to feel pressured. While educational platforms such as EssayPro Service would help with academics, many are under the impression that cosmetic surgery would enhance their social life. The trend does not seem to vanish anytime soon. If you are contemplating this life-altering decision, here is some information that could help you along the way.

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that there were 17.7 million cosmetic surgeries performed in 2018. This is a 2% increase compared to the numbers in 2017. Out of this, over 1 million cosmetic procedures were done on individuals aged between 13 to 29. The majority of students fall into this category. 

Pros of Cosmetic Surgery

Improves Physical Appearance and Self-Esteem

There is no denying that cosmetic surgery is focused on enhancing the appearance of a person. How you look is a significant factor for many individuals. It affects their self-perception and even confidence.

A research article published in the International Journal of Emergency Mental Health and Human Resilience detailed a study conducted on 46 candidates after they underwent plastic surgery. The study exhibited that the procedure increases self-esteem in both males and females. Cosmetic surgeries help many to alter their physical appearance and consequently, their self-image.

Helps with Physical Impairments

Plastic surgery can help in the reconstruction of body defects ranging from trauma, and birth defects to burns. Recently there has been an increase in reconstruction procedures for breast cancer victims following a mastectomy. These reconstructive surgeries can certainly improve the quality of life for many.

More Permanent Results

Cosmetic surgeries are a permanent alternative to temporary beauty procedures. In the majority of cases, plastic surgeries provide long-lasting results. It is only for few conditions such as sagging skin or wrinkles that you might have to repeat procedures to maintain results. It is worth noting that this longevity depends on several factors, including lifestyle and health.

Easy Accessibility

This upsurge in treatments has resulted in vast availability of aesthetic specialty professionals. It is no longer difficult to find a clinic to get procedures done. Even if you struggle finding the right surgeon in your country, there are locations that are entertaining the cosmetic tourism industry at relatively affordable rates in countries like Thailand and South Korea.

Cons of Cosmetic Surgery

High Expenses

Cosmetic surgeries often lean to the expensive side and are not usually covered by insurance. Even the simplest procedures are highly priced, with the expenses climbing pretty steep. Especially for popular procedures such as tummy tuck or breast augmentation. This often keeps people, particularly those who are in need of it, hesitating in seeking treatment. It is not uncommon for people to save up hefty sums or even take loans to undergo such surgeries.

Lack of Satisfaction

People often approach aesthetic surgeries with unrealistic expectations. These procedures not always guarantee the exact results the patients are hoping for. In many cases, individuals are not satisfied with the adjustments to their bodies after they have made the changes. It leads to regret and even psychological issues. Patients are ideally recommended to consult with a psychiatrist or get counseled before opting for plastic surgeries.

Risk of Complications

Cosmetic procedures, much like any other surgery, can go wrong. Sometimes it could lead to undesired results; in other cases, it could end in severe medical complications. These incidences of complexities are higher when the procedures are performed by untrained people. Many of these cases are irreversible and are swept under the carpet with patients living with lifelong sufferings.

Such outcomes could not only lower your self-esteem further but might even risk your life. The American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery insists that people interested in treatments carefully choose a doctor. One should pay careful attention to their training, practice history, and experience. 

Recovery Time

As opposed to simple beauty treatments, cosmetic surgeries involve longer recovery time. Patients might have to put their life on hold for a few weeks that follow the operation. In some cases, extreme care has to be taken for longer time periods. It is important to consider the time required to get accustomed to your new appearance and how others embrace the "new you."

Ultimately, cosmetic surgery is an individual choice. Some people swear by the positive impact it has had on their lives, while others have had unfortunate experiences. It is best for any individual considering cosmetic surgery to be aware and advised of the advantages and disadvantages before making a concrete decision.