Frequently Asked Questions

FAQs about Cosmetic Surgery

Q: What is plastic surgery?

A: Plastic surgery is the field of medical practice focused on the studying, restoring, and improving the form and functioning of the body.

 

Q: What is cosmetic surgery?

A: Cosmetic surgery is a specific type of plastic surgery, focused on the restoration, maintenance, and enhancement of the body and its form.

 

Q: What is the difference between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery?

A: Plastic surgery refers to an entire field of study and practice, whereas cosmetic surgery refers to a specific aesthetic focus within that field.

 

Q: What is a cosmetic surgeon?

A: A cosmetic surgeon is a medical doctor who performs cosmetic procedures designed to restore or enhance the physical appearance and condition of his patients.

 

Q: What are the main types of cosmetic surgery?

A: There is a wide array of available cosmetic surgeries, but some of the most popular types are lifts (such as the face lift and tummy tuck) and liposuction.  Breast augmentation surgery is also very commonly performed.

 

Q: What is breast augmentation?

A: Breast augmentation is a cosmetic surgical procedure designed to enhance the size, shape, and feel of the breasts.  This is usually achieved through the use of surgical breast implants.

 

Q: What are breast implants?

A: Breast implants are prosthetic devices designed to be inserted surgically behind the patient’s mammary tissue, enhancing the size and shape of the bust.

 

Q: What are the differences between silicone implants and saline implants?

A: Silicone implants are composed of a solid-type silicone gel and typically offer more consistent support.  Saline implants are installed empty, and then injected with a liquid saline solution once in place.  This allows the surgeon to make a much smaller incision.

 

Q: What is a face lift?

A: A face lift is a surgical procedure designed to eliminate loose skin and wrinkles from the face by tightening local muscle and fascia.

 

Q: What is cosmetic eyelid surgery?

A: Cosmetic eyelid surgery is a newer procedure designed to remove excess skin and fat from the patient’s upper and lower eyelids.

 

Q: What is a tummy tuck?

A: A tummy tuck is a surgical procedure in which the abdominal muscles are tightened and the covering skin tightened, in order to render the stomach area more firm.

 

Q: What is an abdominoplasty?

A: Abdominoplasty is the technical medical term for the procedure more commonly known as the tummy tuck.

 

Q: What is liposuction?

A: Liposuction is a surgical procedure in which unwanted and persistent fatty tissue deposits are removed from various places on the body.

 

Q: How does liposuction work?

A: Liposuction makes use of a special tube, called a cannula, and a specialized suction device known as an aspirator.  The cosmetic surgeon will use these tools (occasionally with electronic, water, or ultrasound assistance) in order dislodge and excise collections of adipose (fat) tissue.

 

Q: What is a mastopexy?

A: A mastopexy is a surgical procedure often called a breast lift, in which the muscles and skin of the chest of tightened in order to correct sagging.

 

Q: What is a chemical peel?

A: A chemical peel is a non-surgical treatment designed to treat the skin by removing dead cells and opening pores.

 

Q: What is a rhinoplasty?

A: Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a restorative or aesthetic plastic surgery in which the form of the nose is restored, corrected, or reshaped.

 

Q: What are the risks of cosmetic surgery?

A: Cosmetic surgeries carry the same risks as other invasive procedures.  Some operations can result in long recovery times, and adjustment or correction procedures are often needed after the initial surgery has been performed.  It is best to discuss any questions or concerns with your doctor or cosmetic surgeon.

 

Q: How much does cosmetic surgery cost?

A:  Cosmetic surgery can cost between several hundred and many thousand dollars, depending on the type of procedure and the particular rates of the surgeon.  For the best offers from local cosmetic surgeons in your area, call 1-800-IDEAL-YOU today.