Our Summary

This research paper talks about different types of cosmetic surgeries that can make a person’s face look younger and more balanced. These surgeries can have long-lasting and significant positive effects on a person’s mental health and quality of life. Even though non-surgical treatments like cosmetic injections are popular, facelifts are still the most effective and long-lasting way to reduce signs of aging, especially for women. The most common type of cosmetic facial surgery is the correction of the upper eyelids.

The paper goes on to discuss several types of facial cosmetic surgeries, including facelifts, neck lifts, forehead lifts, corrections of the upper and lower eyelids, lip lifts under the nose, and nose reshaping (rhinoplasty). For each type of surgery, the paper talks about when it’s appropriate, when it’s not, how it’s done, and its pros and cons.

The paper suggests that because more and more people are seeking cosmetic treatments, it’s important for dental professionals and oral and facial surgeons to be familiar with these procedures. This will allow them to provide the best information, referrals, or treatments to their patients as needed.

FAQs

  1. What are the different types of facial cosmetic surgeries discussed in the research paper?
  2. How does the paper suggest cosmetic surgery can impact a person’s mental health and quality of life?
  3. Why does the paper argue that dental professionals and oral and facial surgeons need to be familiar with cosmetic procedures?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about cosmetic surgery is to thoroughly research the procedure they are considering, including the potential risks and benefits. It’s important for patients to have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery and to choose a qualified and experienced surgeon. Additionally, patients should follow all pre- and post-operative instructions provided by their surgeon to ensure a successful recovery. It’s also important for patients to have a thorough consultation with their surgeon to discuss their goals and concerns before proceeding with any cosmetic surgery.

Suitable For

Overall, patients who are typically recommended for cosmetic surgery are those who are looking to improve their appearance, boost their self-esteem, and address specific aesthetic concerns. These patients may be in good overall health, have realistic expectations about the outcomes of the surgery, and have specific areas of their face or body that they would like to enhance or improve.

Some common reasons why patients may seek cosmetic surgery include:

  • Aging concerns: Patients who are looking to reduce the signs of aging on their face, such as wrinkles, sagging skin, or loss of facial volume, may consider procedures like facelifts, neck lifts, or eyelid corrections.

  • Facial asymmetry: Patients who have facial features that are unbalanced or asymmetrical may seek procedures like nose reshaping or lip lifts to create a more harmonious appearance.

  • Volume loss: Patients who have lost volume in their face due to aging or weight loss may consider procedures like cheek implants or fat transfer to restore fullness and youthfulness to their face.

  • Proportional concerns: Patients who are unhappy with the size or shape of certain facial features, such as their nose or lips, may consider procedures like rhinoplasty or lip augmentation to achieve a more balanced and proportional appearance.

Ultimately, the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery is a personal one, and patients should carefully consider their motivations, expectations, and potential risks before undergoing any procedure. It is important for patients to consult with a qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon to discuss their goals and explore all available options before making a decision.

Timeline

Before cosmetic surgery:

  1. Initial consultation: The patient meets with a cosmetic surgeon to discuss their goals, concerns, and expectations for the surgery.
  2. Pre-operative evaluations: The patient undergoes various medical tests to ensure they are healthy enough for surgery.
  3. Planning and preparation: The surgeon creates a personalized treatment plan and discusses the details of the procedure, including potential risks and complications.
  4. Surgery day: The patient arrives at the surgical facility, undergoes anesthesia, and the surgery is performed.
  5. Recovery: The patient follows post-operative care instructions, including taking prescribed medications, attending follow-up appointments, and avoiding strenuous activities.

After cosmetic surgery:

  1. Immediate post-operative period: The patient may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
  2. Early recovery: Swelling and bruising begin to subside, and the patient can gradually resume normal activities.
  3. Long-term results: Over time, the full results of the surgery become apparent as swelling completely resolves and the tissues settle into their final position.
  4. Follow-up appointments: The patient continues to see their surgeon for follow-up visits to monitor healing and address any concerns.
  5. Maintenance: To maintain the results of the surgery, the patient may need to follow a skincare regimen, avoid sun exposure, and consider additional treatments in the future.

What to Ask Your Doctor

Some questions a patient should ask their doctor about cosmetic surgery include:

  1. What are the risks and potential complications associated with the specific cosmetic surgery I am considering?
  2. What are the expected results and recovery time for this procedure?
  3. Can you show me before and after photos of patients who have undergone this surgery?
  4. What type of anesthesia will be used during the procedure?
  5. How many times have you performed this specific cosmetic surgery?
  6. What are the alternative treatment options to achieve the results I desire?
  7. Will I need to follow any special post-operative care instructions?
  8. What is the cost of the procedure, and does it include follow-up visits?
  9. Are there any long-term effects or maintenance required after the surgery?
  10. Can you provide me with references from previous patients who have undergone similar procedures?

Reference

Authors: Steenen SA, Gül A, Hupkens P, Bauland CG. Journal: Ned Tijdschr Tandheelkd. 2023 Dec;130(12):495-506. doi: 10.5177/ntvt.2023.12.23062. PMID: 38051083