Before
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The number one reason that board certification matters for plastic surgery is patient safety. What exactly does board certification mean? Ensuring your health, safety and aesthetic results are in qualified hands means researching and understanding what various credentials really signify.
As it gets harder to differentiate between real photos, manipulated photos and AI-generated images, how do you know what reality is? Can you trust before and after pictures to accurately assess what a plastic surgery result will look like? Do photos reflect the true skill and artistry of a plastic surgeon?
Artificial intelligence (AI) is undoubtedly top of mind in many professions right now. This can also be said for those within the medical profession, as AI becomes increasingly integrated into daily operations and is being considered for future applications.
After a plastic surgery procedure, how do you know if your recovery is progressing as it should? Instead of slinking into a bikini one day postop because that's what we see celebrities and influencers doing, how about we support each other during an aesthetic journey, not compare?
Love is in the air, and we're not talking about wine and chocolates. More people than ever are falling in love with plastic surgery and how these procedures make them look and feel. Body contouring procedures like liposuction, breast augmentation and tummy tucks always seem to be at the top of the statistical "love" list, but what do real people think?
Your plastic surgeon gets it – they really do. Recovery is challenging, and healing takes time. They know you want to get back into the swing of a regular routine as soon as possible. However, rushing the recovery process can lead to complications and jeopardize your results.
Plastic surgery this year is all about subtle, natural results as well as cutting-edge technologies and treatments. Whether you're curious about new techniques or want to know what's hot in the world of aesthetics, these trends are worth keeping an eye on.
Gifting plastic surgery to a friend, family member or loved one is turning into a more common occurrence. Yet, what seemed like a good idea at the time may turn into a post-holiday nightmare. Before you gift your valentine a plastic surgery procedure, consider some benefits and drawbacks.
The start of a new year often brings announcements of new innovations and technologies, and the realm of weight loss is no exception. The upcoming year will offer advancements in this area, with new medications that offer truly amazing results.
Each generation has its unique quirks. In some regard, we are all products of the time in which we grew up, and those differences can significantly impact our perception of the world today and how we approach everything from relationships to work and, yes, even plastic surgery.
You've undergone plastic surgery, obtained the desired result and are living your best life. Everything seems perfect. Yet, what happens when you discover that an implant or other medical device is part of an FDA recall?
Weight loss drugs have been all the rage recently. These so-called "miracle drugs" have been helping both men and women to successfully lose weight and achieve a healthier lifestyle through continued use and proper medical supervision.
Plastic surgeons may not have a crystal ball. Still, they work with so many patients throughout the year that many surgeons get an innate feeling for which procedures are popular, which are declining and which buzzworthy procedures are poised to take off.
If you are choosing to enhance your appearance with plastic surgery this holiday season, you need to know when it's okay to pop the cork on the bubbly and when you need to reach for a mocktail instead.
If you aren't into decking the halls and are more into decking yourself out with a new look, now might be the right time to consider using your PTO for that plastic surgery procedure you've been considering so you have a generous amount of time to focus on your recovery.
When we think of athletes, we often think of their intense physical exertion and the wear and tear on their bodies. However, what may be surprising is how athletic plastic surgeons need to be because the physical demands of performing plastic surgery resemble those of playing a contact sport.
What are the most popular plastic surgery procedures leading to the holiday party season? Board-certified plastic surgeons have the 411.
Your recovery from surgery plays a key role in your outcome. Following the directions of your plastic surgeon to the letter is very important, but your age also plays a critical role.
If you think graduating medical school is the end of education, think again. For many plastic surgeons, continuing education is vital to the job – a part of work that many surgeons take particularly seriously. However, if a surgeon isn't in the classroom, where do they go to stay up to date on the latest innovations in the industry?
You'll quickly realize the surgery itself is only a small part of the plastic surgery journey. It's also about getting your body, mind, life and finances ready for the changes ahead. A lot goes into planning for surgery from medical clearances to recruiting help for recovery.
Have you ever heard of "awake" plastic surgery? It's a valuable alternative to the traditional approach, where you're under general anesthesia. This method allows you to stay conscious during the procedure, offering a different experience altogether.
If you are interested in plastic surgery but aren't sure which procedures may be proper for you, where can you turn for inspiration? Is it now a faux pas to save pictures and bring them to your surgeon's office? How do you articulate your goals and desired results, especially when the right words seem to escape you?
In-demand board-certified plastic surgeons in in-demand areas may have packed schedules. Packed schedules mean you may have a bit of a wait before you can get in for your initial consultation.
Summer is vacation season. Many people opt to visit family, tour theme parks or relax on the beach, but there is a subsection of the vacationing population who travel for an altogether different purpose. For these people, summer travel is about medical tourism.
Most people understand that prescription medications and anesthesia do not mix. However, as new classes of drugs enter the market, there can be some confusion about what medications you can take up until surgery and which ones you need to put on pause.
Plastic surgeons are talking about mental health with patients before ever stepping into the operating room to make sure their expectations will match the actual results.
Did you blink and suddenly find yourself staring squarely into swimsuit season already? Time moves fast! If you have been in an extended hibernation mode, you may not feel ready to hit the beach or hang out with friends by the pool, even when the excruciating heat hits.
Your plastic surgeon wants you to ask them questions. An open dialogue and transparent communication are crucial to getting the best results. These are the top five questions board-certified plastic surgeons want you to ask.
Most plastic surgeons are men, but more women are entering the specialty each year. In 2024, women comprised only 19 percent of membership in the United States for the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), but gender parity is coming to plastic surgery.
Managing careers and families has always been a delicate balancing act for women. They are often told they can have it all, but the reality of working in a demanding specialty and the demands of being a working parent is challenging. Women plastic surgeons, however, agree that while it can certainly be difficult – it's not impossible.
Once seen as a platform for teens to post dance videos or showcase a daily outfit, TikTok has quickly become a leading source of information – and misinformation – for individuals around the world who are interested in learning more about plastic surgery.
Searching for the best plastic surgeon is like dating. You're looking for that special someone who gets you, shares your vision and will help you become your best self. It's a mix of excitement, nerves and high hopes as you sift through plastic surgeon websites, reviews and before and after photos, seeking a connection that feels just right.
Scrolling through plastic surgery before and after photos, you may have marveled at the transformative results and wondered if they're too good to be true. You're not alone. While some images accurately show the outcomes of a procedure, others can leave you thinking there's more to the picture than meets the eye.
Multiple studies have shown that diversity among healthcare teams leads to improved patient care, compliance and satisfaction – particularly among patients of color.
A scar is a necessary part of many plastic surgery procedures, including breast lifts, arm lifts, tummy tucks and more. Yet, there are steps you can take to ensure your scar heals well and doesn't detract from your enhanced appearance.
The integration of telemedicine into plastic surgery marks a significant paradigm shift in how healthcare is delivered. Adding this approach to communication has transformed the traditional methods of patient consultations, follow-ups and overall patient interaction.
What you pay for a plastic surgery procedure could vary considerably based on several factors, including the doctor's education, experience, expertise and even where you live.
Plastic surgery is a dynamic and evolving field that offers a wide range of options for individuals across different age groups.
Plastic surgery, often seen as a hallmark of modern medical aesthetics, has roots that delve deep into the annals of history. Today's procedures shimmer with the gloss of high-tech and the allure of social acceptance, but the journey of plastic surgery is an unfolding story that began long before the first Botox injection smoothed a furrowed brow.
When looking at the future of the world at large, there is no doubt that there is one advancement that is heavy on the minds of men and women everywhere – artificial intelligence (AI). There is no doubt that AI will continue to make an impact and expand its reach within the coming years with continual advancements in the specialty of plastic surgery and the introduction of new methods of artificial learning.
A shortage of Latino doctors is causing the medical profession to face an emergency of its own. Latinos are the largest minority group in the United States, representing 19% of the population. Despite this, less than seven percent of all U.S. physicians are Latino. This gap creates significant healthcare barriers, inequalities and poorer outcomes for Latino patients.
The rise of social media has not only transformed the way we communicate but also has significantly influenced our perceptions of beauty. Influencers, with their extensive reach and relatability, play a pivotal role in steering the beauty narrative. This digital revolution has significantly impacted the cosmetic surgery industry.
The world of plastic surgery has been a melting pot of ideas, influences and groundbreaking achievements where Hispanic surgeons have played a pivotal role in shaping its history and current practices.
A surgeon works on a patient with the precision of a scientist, with every instrument carefully calibrated and movements calculated down to the millimeter. Yet, in the same breath, the doctor also sees the procedure with an artist's eye, discerning the subtleties of form and symmetry to make decisions that will transform not just tissue but lives.
The line between reality and aspiration often blurs in a world where Instagram filters and Photoshop can easily manipulate appearances. Yet, advancements in imaging technology have allowed the field of plastic surgery to undergo a significant evolution so doctors and patients can better determine the results of a procedure.
As plastic surgery's popularity continues to grow, innovative technologies – including artificial intelligence (AI) – are increasingly intersecting with this medical discipline.
Proper planning for your plastic surgery recovery is critical to maximize your results. Start implementing healthy lifestyle choices ahead of time, prepare your space and practice mindfulness to keep yourself centered throughout the recovery process. You can maximize your glow and results by giving your body the time and space to heal fully.
In our fast-paced digital age, the constant bombardment of seemingly flawless images on social media platforms can shape perceptions of what is considered beautiful. It has become crucial, now more than ever, to understand and maintain mental well-being when considering or undergoing cosmetic procedures.
Rest and recovery are essential to maximize your plastic surgery results. Many patients tend to focus only on the procedure, but healing is just as critical to achieving the goals you desire. This means giving your body ample time to heal by limiting physical activity, undergoing scar treatment and taking enough time off work.
Social media is abuzz with celebrities and influencers dissolving their facial filler and shrinking their breasts and buttocks, signaling a shift in a beauty aesthetic of the recent past where inflated body parts garnered views, likes and shares on social media and drove demand for plastic surgery.
A combination procedure might be right for you if you're looking into plastic surgery and have a couple of things you want to address.
Navigating the maze of online information about plastic surgery can undoubtedly be a daunting task. And while starting your research online is an acceptable first step, it should always be followed by a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon.
In the contemporary world, plastic surgery has become more than a quest for aesthetic enhancement – it's evolved into a catalyst for individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles, sparking changes that can impact their overall well-being.
Beauty mogul and reality TV star Kylie Jenner recently shared on "The Kardashians" that she had undergone breast augmentation at the age of 19 and that she also has some regrets about it.
From searching for before and after photos to reading surgeon reviews to simply looking at a practice's social media, there are plenty of places to check when doing your due diligence. But with the ease of access to information in this new digital era comes room for error and misinformation.
Every plastic surgery patient knows that the most intense part of your recovery starts when you wake up from anesthesia and continues for several days after surgery. From those first groggy moments, it's clear that you need help – and sometimes plenty of it.
If there's one thing we can't escape in life, it's the process of growing older. While we gain wisdom and experience as we journey through life, our faces and bodies will also begin to show the effects of aging.
For those patients who are ready to take the plunge into a procedure, it can be confusing to determine where to start. Where should you look for information about the procedure and potential surgeons? Where should you not look for information? What questions should you ask during a consultation?
While the world has come a long way in understanding and accepting plastic surgery, misconceptions still linger. From its affordability to its scope and results, misinformation continues to stigmatize the field of plastic surgery.
In this day and age, there's no doubt about it – social media is king. This unique digital platform has opened a new universe of possibilities, allowing us to connect with others worldwide instantly and access a wealth of knowledge at our fingertips.
As it grows in popularity, plastic surgery is becoming more widely accepted by the public. But with its close ties to body image and media, many question its impact on one's mental well-being – especially for young women.
When we talk about plastic surgery, its procedures and considerations, it's nearly impossible to gloss over the impact that social media has on it. From "inspo pictures" to Facebook groups, social media has become a source of both education and misinformation.
Often, the conversations of age and plastic surgery go hand-in-hand as plastic surgery is one tried-and-true method of aging gracefully. And while traditional ideas around using plastic surgery to counteract aging focused on aesthetics, modern interpretations take a more holistic approach, considering the individual's health and wellbeing to counteract aging.
Plastic surgery is often characterized as innovative and ready to embrace change in healthcare and the world beyond. Known for inventing technologies, adopting better techniques and embracing new ideas, plastic surgeons are advancing into a much-needed focus area to better serve patients – diversity, belonging and inclusion.
Among the many diverse groups plastic surgeons serve, the LGBTQIA+ community holds a distinct position, having contributed unique experiences that are invaluable in refining the specialty of plastic surgery and shaping healthcare at large.
The COVID-19 pandemic drove more people to telemedicine for their plastic surgery journey than ever before. From initial consultation to postoperative care, video conferencing with plastic surgeons is the new normal – and it's here to stay.
In the age of social media and celebrity plastic surgery, what was once taboo is now all the rage and millennials are responding in record numbers.
Researching a plastic surgeon's qualifications and credentials before choosing them for a procedure is essential. But if you've ever glanced at a plastic surgeon's name and found yourself bewildered by the letters following it, you're certainly not alone.
In the high-stakes world of professional sports, where victory and defeat often lie in the tiniest margins, plastic surgeons have emerged as unsung heroes behind the scenes. Their role is increasingly vital, blending art, science and athleticism to redefine what's possible on the playing field.
It's a safe assumption that the outcome of surgery relies a great deal on the surgeon's expertise. And while their skills are no doubt critical, your lifestyle choices – including diet, vitamin intake and exercise habits - also play a significant role in influencing your results.
There's no doubt about it – time is precious. For working professionals, moms – and anyone else who lives a busy life – the demands on their time are often a barrier to any thought of having plastic surgery. Combining multiple surgeries into a single-stage procedure is an attractive alternative for many patients.
Women make up nearly half of medical school graduates. However, according to a 2017 study in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery – Global Open, they remain underrepresented among surgical residents and surgeons.
Let's face it, when most people think of plastic surgery, they think of procedures like Botox and breast augmentation. And while those enhancements make up a large number of cosmetic procedures, there's much more than meets the eye when it comes to plastic surgery.
Black History Month was created as a way to focus our attention on the contributions of Black Americans in society. Its intent was not only to honor all Black people from all periods of United States history, but to provide an opportunity to celebrate the triumphs of these individuals throughout time.
With phrases like #plasticsurgery having more than 16 billion views on TikTok, you can bet that hot topics like this aren't going to disappear from social media anytime soon. But what happens when more serious subjects like plastic surgery become a topic of conversation on social media?
Botox has been said to turn back the hands of time, but what else is important to know about this popular minimally invasive procedure?
"People are influenced by influencers. And I think we're seeing the more subtle, understated aesthetic in many celebrities," said ASPS President Gregory Greco, DO, FACS.
Thousands of people plan to shed the pounds they gained during the COVID-19 pandemic and the holiday season, and cap off their weight loss journey with plastic surgery to contour their bodies, augment their breasts or remove excess skin.
If you’ve paid attention at all to plastic surgery in the media, you are probably familiar with the idea of medical tourism. While you may think of medical tourism purely as flying to another country for procedures, that’s just not the case.
In 2020 alone, more than 20 million people received some sort of plastic surgery, according to the 2020 statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. As more and more people get plastic surgery, it’s important now more than ever before to get the facts straight.
The basics for who is a good candidate for plastic surgery may be old news. Characteristics like being a nonsmoker, committing to leading a healthy lifestyle post-surgery and having a stable weight are tried and true features for people wanting to get plastic surgery.
In the Inaugural ASPS Insights and Trends Report, 80 percent of survey respondents said their patients sought combination procedures for longer-lasting results and shorter recovery times.
Without following your surgeon's aftercare instructions, you can – at minimum – expect a longer and more uncomfortable road to recovery. And in the worst-case scenarios, serious, irreversible side effects, including necrosis, can occur.
At first, ASPS member Loren Schechter, MD, thought kids were setting off fireworks. Then he noticed the tree he was standing under was shaking. Then he smelled the gun powder.
It would be easy to think that a person who walks into a plastic surgeon's office with a picture of Kim Kardashian, asking for one of her specific features is the best kind patient – confident, assured and knows exactly what they want. But in reality, those filtered snaps of overexposed celebrities often blur the line between fantasy and reality when it comes to beauty and plastic surgery.
The celebrity plastic surgery have they or haven't they game is tired, and inherently implies some kind of plastic surgery shaming, which we all can agree needs to end.
There's no way around it: Recovery from plastic surgery is uncomfortable at best. Discomfort during the acute recovery phase, meaning the first few days post-op, should be expected, but pain should not be – especially not now, given all the advancements in technology and technique.