Cosmetic Surgery for Beginners: This Ain’t the Real Housewives

An article from DiscoverSD.com, 10/18/2010

Let’s face it. We can’t all be born with the au naturale beauty of Jess or Angelina, but with the help from some fabulous San Diego cosmetic surgery docs, we can certainly create the natural look we all crave (oxymoron, much?).

For years, men and women alike have been touchin’ up, pullin’ up and firmin’ up their bods and faces under the knives of well-practiced cosmetic surgeons. However, too much time under the knife can flip things from soft and pretty to stiff and creepy, quicker than you can say “Real Housewives.” In the realm of modern cosmetic surgery, it’s about improving what your momma gave ya, not completely transforming it. San Diego cosmetic surgeons work to create the look you dream of, while ensuring that you remain, well, you.

We’ve got the low-down on the world of cosmetic surgery, and the steps you can take to guarantee maximum results, as well as a play-by-play of the procedures that are sure to take your natural beauty to a whole new level.

First thing’s first: Do your homework

You’ve made your decision, established the funds, and you’re emotionally prepared to finally go through with the procedure that you’re positive is going to change your life. What’s the next step? Research—lots of research.

Whether you’re looking to tighten up the body, add structure your jaw line or rewind the biological clock a bit, the very first step you should take on your path to beauty is extensive research. You need to carefully study the procedure you want to have done, investigate the doctors who can perform the procedure, and most importantly, analyze your own expectations. At La Jolla Cosmetic Surgery, senior cosmetic surgeon H. Michael Roark, M.D., and his specialized team work to make sure their clients are absolutely satisfied with the ultimate result. In order to maximize results, Roark says that both patient and doctor need to be aware of the specific boundaries set by your personal anatomy. “The patients have to be realistic about their expectations,” says Roark. “Sometimes, your anatomy just can’t do it.”

And a procedure that receives a big N-O from your own body will most likely not produce good results for you or your doctor. Therefore, when on the hunt for the perfect cosmetic surgeon, it’s important to look for a doctor who will not only listen carefully to your concerns and expectations, but who will also be completely honest with you about what procedures can be done to meet those expectations within the confines of your own anatomical structure. In a nutshell, do your homework, and you’ll be sure to get A+ results.

Opt for a combined practice

When shopping for your ideal doctor, keep in mind that practices that combine a number of different specializations under one roof will most likely be the most time-effective, result-effective, and cost-effective option for you.

For instance, when Dr. Roark examines the surgical needs of new client, he often determines a variety of treatment solutions that will provide optimum results. He might find that a brow lift is the best surgical method in meeting a client’s expectations for a more youthful appearance, but that perhaps the brow lift plus a microdermabrasion will more substantially accomplish the client’s ultimate goal.

Roark believes that a combined practice is more beneficial for both the doctor and the client. “There’s better patient communication in a group practice,” Roark says. “We can really work together to optimize the patient’s treatment and results.” However, San Diego cosmetic surgery practices offering services through a team approach are not limited to the panel of specialized docs working with Dr. Roark.

San Diego plastic surgeon, Stuart B. Kincaid, M.D., F.A.C.S. also likes to provide his clients with access to a variety of qualified professionals in order to ensure them first-class care, creating results that exceed expectations. By working with a solid team, Dr. Kincaid says, “I can perform multiple facial plastic surgical or body contouring procedures such as breast augmentation, tummy-tucks, liposuction, and others in one session, and these types of surgeries may necessitate bringing in another fully-trained assistant plastic surgeon.” Dr. Kincaid recommends these procedures, in which many procedures are performed at one time, in accordance to a patient’s level of health, as well as the results they ultimately wish to see.

Choose wisely

These days, there is almost no limit to the way in which you can transform your face and body, resulting in an endless list of possible procedures to consider. However, if you’re hoping for more natural effects, there are a few procedures definitely worth considering. A brow lift, for example, can have substantial effects without significantly altering your appearance. Brow lifts are most commonly performed to reduce the signs of aging. However, the procedure is also great for creating a bright, alert, and more inviting appearance. To perform a brow lift, doctors will most commonly make a slight incision above your hairline before “lifting” the deeper layers of your forehead. The skin will then be re-attached to the bone above its original resting point, giving your face a refreshed, vibrant look that matches what you feel on the inside.

Also something to consider are slightly less invasive procedures that require smaller incisions and less recovery time. Chemical peels work wonders on the overall condition of the skin, while also greatly reducing fine lines, acne scars and enlarged pores. Chemical peels work by removing the upper layers of your skin, allowing new skin to grow with a smoother and more youthful appearance. The peels are a popular option, as they’re safe on any skin type, allow for immediate return to daily activity, and involve little-to-no pain.

Restylane, Juverderm, and Radiesse are all products called dermal fillers, which are injected into the skin in order to restore the youthful fullness and elasticity that is lost naturally as we age. The great thing about these treatments is that they are no-knife-necessary procedures, reducing your down time and expense, yet they still have the power to create fresh, natural-looking results.

Somethin’ else to think about

It goes without saying that plastic surgery is a ginormous life decision and should not be taken lightly. Because the best opportunity for good results is the first time you attempt the results, it is best to be well-versed on your desired procedure and comfortable with your doc who will be performing it before proceeding to the surgery bed. Additionally, keep in mind that getting multiple procedures at one time can be strenuous on your health, as well as the overall outcome of the procedure, as the more time you spend in the operating room, the longer it will take for your body to recover. Dr. Roark recommends choosing the appropriate procedures in order to minimize the physical risks of plastic surgery, as well as the emotional risks that transpire from unrealistic expectations. Most importantly, Dr. Roark says this about your decision to opt for the ultimate self-renovation, “If you feel you look good, you can lead a much more enriched lifestyle. You need to do it for yourself.”

Excerpted from a DiscoverSD.com article by Teresa Bigelow