Have you ever thought about the hidden risks of cosmetic surgery? Although common place in today’s society the decision to undergo plastic surgery should not be taken lightly. This quest for physical beauty is closely linked to one’s self image. There are also other psychological factors which must be assessed.
The first risk has to do with the anesthetic. This is required to perform any operation. The anesthetic may be local or general. Another important risk to consider is that of the response of the skin. Even though we are now dealing with more modern techniques, there is still a risk of error. There is also the slight chance that a doctor will make an error leaving one scarred for life. And of course we must discuss the possible resulting infections that might occur. These are all very unpredictable possibilities. Before going under the knife for cosmetic reasons they should be weighed seriously.
Psychological Risks of Cosmetic Surgery
Cosmetic surgery is also a psychological risk. In his book, “The Beauty of Tailor-Francoise,” Millet-Bartoli examines the psychological aspects or plastic surgery. There are real psychological hazards that exist when one chooses to change their outward appearance.
The first danger is one of aggravating an underlying condition. For instance, if the desire to finally have a nose without defect is actually a manifestation of depression the surgery will not bring the desired improvements. In reality the plastic surgery may actually disrupt the self perception and make it even harder to deal with in a healthy manner. Sometimes surgical patients no longer recognize themselves with their new physical characteristics. This may propel them into a cycle of repeated surgeries because the face “reference” has disappeared. In an attempt to fix the depression that is deep seated, they keep operating on their face hoping it will improve.
Questions to Ask Before Cosmetic Surgery
Catherine Millet-Bartoli, psychiatrist and psychotherapist, recommends a few questions before deciding to correct the nose, chest or face. First, you want to ask yourself how embarrassing has it been so far. Also do a self inventory to make sure if the need for the surgery is actually related to other problems, such as work or family. And the most important self analysis is to ask your self if the surgery does indeed give the expected results will the new stress that will result really worth undergoing the procedure.
Check Expectations
Finally, double check your expectations. Even though it can be a very precise procedure it is aesthetic and it may be that the real problem lies elsewhere. It is to your own psychological advantage to determine how your appearance is causing a problem before undergoing the procedure. Finally, find a neutral party to discuss it with. Also take into consideration input from friends and family, if they are for or against it.
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