Plastic Surgery Facts…Or Fictions?

Saturday, October 27th, 2018

It seems plastic surgery has had its share of fictions that regularly cycle the internet track. If you have heard any of the ones listed, below, and wondered if they were fact or fiction, read on:

• “A Plastic Surgeon and Cosmetic Surgeon are one and the same.” A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed 3-6 years of surgical training and then 2 or more years focusing on just plastic surgery at an accredited hospital. Other physicians may have been trained to do cosmetic procedures in certain areas, like the head and neck or the eye, but the level of training is not the same. Many physicians calling themselves Cosmetic Surgeons may not even be surgeons (Dermatologists are now doing cosmetic procedures) and many (gynecologists, general surgeons) may have little or no training in many of the procedures they do.
• “Plastic surgery doesn’t leave scars.” Not true. When an incision is made and skin is cut, the result of the incision is a scar. However, highly trained plastics surgeons, such as Dr. Buchanan at the Center for Plastic Surgery, can minimize the appearance of scars with inconspicuous incision placement and very precise closure techniques.
• “Liposuction is for weight loss.” Liposuction is meant to remove localized areas of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. It’s not meant to be a procedure for people who are looking for a speedy, effortless weight-loss solution.
• “Breast augmentation is a one-time event.” Silicone and saline breast implants have a limited life-span – usually around 10 to 15 years, though many have lasted significantly longer. Aging can also cause previously augmented breasts to droop. If you have implants, you may find that you need a replacement procedure or a breast lift in the future.
• “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 your surgeon is critical. Many inexperienced surgeons and non-surgeons are now frequently offering procedures at cut rate prices. You generally get what you pay for. Many are doing procedures where sedation is used in non-accredited facilities without certified anesthesia personnel to supervise. This is also less expensive, but you are literally “taking your life in your hands.” In the state of North Carolina alone there have been a number of deaths in these facilities.

Dr. Buchanan is board-certified and highly trained in the procedures he offers. Any surgery requiring sedation or anesthesia is done in Harris OR, a fully accredited  facility with board certified anesthesiologists. Call for a consultation, today, and experience the highest level of patient care and satisfaction available: (828) 526-3783 or toll free: (877) 526-3784.