Introduction

 

A constant flash of beautiful people on our television screens and magazine covers can stress the need to look our best. Cosmetic surgery is not just a movie star luxury anymore. More commonly people are going under the knife to improve their looks or to correct something that makes them self conscious. For whatever reason you are considering cosmetic surgery the most important thing is to be informed and educated. Toronto based cosmetic surgeon Dr. Solomon, who has been featured on leading television networks including the CBC and Skin Deep offers us some honest answers when it comes to cosmetic surgery.

 

What is the first step a patient should take if they are considering plastic surgery?

 

First step is to research the procedure. Find out if you are a candidate. Find a good surgeon who specializes in the procedure you are looking into. More than one opinion is often helpful . Make sure you have as much information as you can regarding the procedure and possible risks.

 

What are the most common procedures?

 

Commonest procedures depend on the surgeons practice. But generally speaking the commonest operations are liposuction, breast augmentation and rhinoplasty. Non surgical procedures such as botox and injectable fillers also very commonly done.

 

One of the most common procedures you perform is Rhinoplasty. Explain to us what it is and how it benefits patients?

 

Rhinoplasty surgery can dramatically improve facial balance and enhance ones appearance. The nose is in the center of the face and therefore it’s proportions and esthetics can either complement ones appearance or detract from it . A successful procedure can improve ones appearance and also there self confidence. Other benefits include possible improvements to nasal breathing if it was compromised before surgery.

 

Do you feel that cosmetic surgery is becoming more popular because of TV shows such as “Extreme Makeover” etc.?

 

Definitely the media explosion with cosmetic surgery has stimulated society’s interest . As it becomes more mainstream and accessible to more people in terms of affordability there is more and more interest in society . There is no stigma or very little stigma attached to cosmetic surgery now as compared to years ago.

 

How does it make you feel when a patient comes back to you and says “you have changed my life!”?

 

When a patient is happy with their changes from surgery I feel tremendous satisfaction. You feel that your knowledge and Technical skill has enhanced someone’s life. What could feel better?

 

Hollywood gives us the impression that cosmetic surgery is as common as buying a pair of shoes. Should cosmetic surgery be taken lightly?

 

Cosmetic surgery should not be taken lightly. There are always risks to any procedure and the surgeon should outline these to the patient. Some procedures obviously are less risky than others but surgical procedures can have risks of poor cosmetic outcome, infection, bleeding With a qualified surgeon who has experience in the particular procedure the risks are kept to a minimum.