A few decades ago, If we were to discuss plastic surgery with a typical person, there would probably have been only two sources of their knowledge: first, plastic surgeries shown in movies, where a person's appearance is completely transformed through surgery, and second, occasional news about actors and celebrities who undergo plastic or cosmetic surgery to look more beautiful and younger. However, in recent years, plastic and cosmetic surgery have gained popularity in India's major cities, and their demand has significantly increased.
You might be surprised to know that, according to a global survey conducted by the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ISAPS), India performs between eight to ten lakh cosmetic surgeries per year, accounting for approximately 4.3% of total cosmetic surgeries performed worldwide. Also, foreigners account for roughly 12% of all cosmetic procedures performed in India. A key reason for this is that the cost of plastic and cosmetic surgery in India is far lower than in other countries. People on the internet have raised many questions and concerns about cosmetic surgery. Today, in this article, OnlyMyHealth brings answers to 10 questions related to plastic and cosmetic surgery that are most frequently asked on Google. For this, we have spoken to Dr Ritu Singh, MD of Shri Ram Singh Hospital (SRS Hospital) in Noida, who has more than 15 years of experience in this field.
Is plastic really used in plastic surgery?
In response to this question, Dr Ritu says, "No, the name 'plastic surgery' might make some people think that the procedure involves the use of plastic (polyethylene), but this is not the case. Actually, the English word 'plastic' is derived from the Greek word 'plastikos', which means something that can be easily molded or has flexibility. Since skin is flexible, it started being referred to as plastic surgery."
Also read: Plastic Surgery Is Beyond Aesthetics, Expert Lists The Types And Their Benefits
Can plastic surgery change a person's natural skin color and appearance?
Yes, today there are certain medications and procedures available that can change the natural color of the skin. However, only a dermatologist or plastic surgeon can advise using them. Though, plastic surgery cannot completely change a person's appearance. It can enhance a person's beauty and make moderate to significant alterations to their body features as needed.
Can skin completely heal after an acid attack through plastic surgery?
Yes, not just acid attacks, but in cases where the skin is burned in any manner, it can only be fully healed through plastic surgery. However, it might be a bit difficult for the person to regain their natural look, but it can be significantly improved.
Does the result of plastic or cosmetic surgery always remain the same, or can it change over time?
Nothing in this world is permanent. Therefore, the results of plastic surgery can vary for each patient. Moreover, the care taken after the surgery also affects the results.
What is the minimum age for undergoing plastic or cosmetic surgery? Can it be done in the teenage years?
There are many branches of plastic surgery. If we talk about plastic surgery in general, yes, it can be done at any age. But when it comes to cosmetic surgery, it is usually advised to be done by adults or older people.
There are often news reports that a celebrity underwent plastic surgery and died some time later. So, is this surgery really very dangerous?
“There is some risk involved in all types of surgical procedures. I often explain this to my patients with an example. I tell them that walking on the road is dangerous, as our experience and daily accident statistics show, but it does not mean that you should stop walking on the road altogether,” said Dr Singh, adding, the possibility of risk is higher when you get it done by an unqualified doctor. If these surgeries are performed by a good doctor in a well-equipped and facility-rich hospital, then the risk is negligible.
What type of surgery is most popular in India?
Cosmetic surgery is the most popular in India. Among these, Nose Jobs (Rhinoplasty) and Liposuction are the most chosen by people. It should be noted for our readers that liposuction removes excess fat from the body, which can shape the body more attractively.
How different is plastic surgery from cosmetic surgery?
Plastic surgery is generally performed for medical needs, such as after burns, amputations, etc. On the other hand, cosmetic surgery is primarily performed to enhance a person's appearance. Cosmetic surgery is a branch of plastic surgery.
Can cosmetic surgery completely remove stretch marks and skin scars?
No, they cannot be completely erased to give the skin a natural look as before. However, they can be significantly improved.
Also read: World Plastic Surgery Day 2023: Expert Debunks Myths About Plastic Surgery
Does undergoing plastic surgery increase the risk of cancer?
No, this is entirely a myth. Undergoing plastic surgery does not increase the risk of cancer in any way. Apart from these questions, one question that is most asked on Google is - how much does it cost to undergo plastic surgery? - In response, Dr. Ritu says that there is no precise answer to this. It depends on the type of surgery and the location of the hospital.
We hope this article has answered some of the questions you may have had about plastic and cosmetic surgery. If you still have any questions, you can send us your questions on our social media handles.