Patient Education

Patient Education in Jackson, MS

If you are seeking an expert facial plastic surgeon in Mississippi, it is important to first understand the basics of plastic surgery.

The word plastic refers to the reshaping or reforming of an object, which is the essence of plastic surgery.  It has little to do with “plastic” material as the word is commonly used today.  Modern plastic surgery dates back to the World War I era, although some procedures were performed as early as 1000 B.C.  Plastic surgery is really a collection of techniques used to reconstruct or reshape areas of the body.

Plastic surgery can be divided into two main areas: Reconstructive and Aesthetic (commonly known as “cosmetic”). Reconstructive surgery seeks to return a damaged or deformed part to normal function and appearance, while cosmetic surgery attempts to correct or improve unattractive or disharmonious features as well as to remove some of the conspicuous marks of aging.  Some surgery is both reconstructive and cosmetic, such as correction of a nasal deformity after injury in order to improve both breathing and appearance.

Why Do People Undergo Facial Plastic Surgery To Improve Their Appearance?

Certainly, facial plastic surgery and treatments are not for everyone. But the fact that our society places a great deal of importance on appearance remains undeniable, for better or for worse. Indeed, the current trend towards better fitness and a longer life span leave many feeling younger, but looking older. The best reason for wanting to improve appearance is to enhance self-esteem. The way we feel about ourselves permeates our daily interactions with others.

Most of us do take pride in our appearance.  This is evident by the billions of dollars spent annually on cosmetics and clothing.  Once felt to be the province of only Hollywood stars and celebrities, aesthetic surgery and treatments are sought more often now by average men and women than ever before.  The business community has shown increasing interest in facial surgery to eradicate the marks of aging, and persons of all ages are having nasal and other congenital deformities corrected.  

Many times, the enhanced self-esteem exceeds the improvement in physical appearance alone.  It must be understood, however, that aesthetic surgery cannot be expected to save a job, a marriage, or to solve personal problems, particularly if the individual blames his or her looks for a lack of success or happiness in life.

Advances in surgical and anesthetic techniques have also made facial plastic surgery safer and more comfortable. Increased attention to preoperative evaluation and facial proportions has allowed for more natural and longer-lasting results. Many treatments are available now that can be done in the office with very little time off from work or daily activities.</