Looking Rested, Not Fake

By George Bitar M.D., Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

All of us are intimately aware of our image. We evaluate our appearance each time we shave, apply makeup, and workout. We are aware of our physical strengths and weaknesses by a look in the mirror or the reaction of friends, family, and strangers. This personal knowledge may bring with it certain dissatisfaction with how we look. A lot of us would like to change some feature about our appearance.

Today, plastic surgery brings cosmetic procedures into the realm of possibility for the average person, whether the desired change is minimal or dramatic.

While the reasons for choosing facial cosmetic surgery are as varied as different individuals, they do share a fundamental link- people choose cosmetic surgery because it offers us a unique opportunity to enhance the way we feel about ourselves. In addition, it has been well documented that the effects of a positive self-image can flow into other areas of a person's life resulting in a greater sense of competence and higher self-esteem. Facial cosmetic surgery is becoming more popular for both men and women trying to stay competitive in the work force. According to a national survey conducted by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), 7.8 million Americans who believe that looking older is a disadvantage on the job will consider undergoing facial plastic surgery for professional reasons. Among men and women, the procedures most contemplated are facelifts (20%), rhinoplasty (15%), laser resurfacing (11%), and eyelid surgery (11%). Facial plastic surgery may not be for everyone, but there are a variety of procedures that can rejuvenate an aging face.

Our face is priceless, to be treated with the utmost care and respect. Facial skin care is very important, and it can be as mild as the medically offered skin care Obagi or as strong as a facial peel or laser. Facial wrinkles can be significantly reduced with Botox, a protein that relaxes muscles forming wrinkles in the forehead, around the eyes, and between the brows. We need to look rested, not fake... that is the trick! Restylane, an FDA approved filler is very safe with long lasting results around the facial wrinkles and folds. Restylane can also create luscious lips lasting twice as long as collagen without skin testing needed. The nose is the centerpiece of the face and has to be aesthetically pleasing for the face to glow. A rhinoplasty, or a nose job, can be a minimal or extended operation, depending on what a particular nose needs, but it has to look natural, and be true to our ethnic heritage. For people who want more dramatic rejuvenation, a neck-lift or a face-lift can reverse the already present signs of aging. Patients who consider a face-lift usually want to know how much improvement they can expect and how long it will last. If the operation is completed early in the aging process, a patient can anticipate a look that is refreshed, and less tired-looking. A person who has waited longer can expect more dramatic results.

The way we feel is reflected in the way we look. Cosmetic surgery is a wonderful tool, when utilized properly, to make us feel refreshed, rested, and ready to conquer the world. The options are many, so it is best to assess our needs then consult a cosmetic surgeon when ready for a change, whether it is minor or major. There are different levels of treatments to satisfy those who want a minimal change to those who want a significant improvement and rejuvenation.