Different Types of Plastic Surgery for Enhancing Aesthetics and Function

Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that focuses on the repair and reconstruction of physical defects or disfigurements to enhance an individual’s physical appearance.

It has been around since as early as 800 BC when ancient Indian Ayurvedic practices were used to reconstruct noses.

Today, plastic surgery includes both surgical and non-surgical procedures to improve a person’s physical appearance and support medical functions.

Types of Procedures for Aesthetic Enhancement

Facial Surgery

Facial surgery is one of the most common types of plastic surgery with many different facial procedures available. This can include facelifts, brow lifts, eyelid surgery, and chin augmentation. These procedures can be used to reduce the signs of aging, improve facial symmetry, or change the size and shape of facial features.

Face rejuvenation procedures involve reducing the signs of aging such as wrinkles, fine lines, sagging skin, and age spots. This may be done through the use of dermal fillers, laser resurfacing treatments, or other non-surgical treatments. These procedures can help patients look younger and more refreshed overall, restoring a more youthful appearance to the face.

Body Contouring

Body contouring procedures are designed to reshape areas of the body, such as the abdomen, buttocks, hips, and thighs. This can be done through liposuction to remove unwanted fat deposits or by using skin-tightening procedures like tummy tucks or butt lifts to improve the overall appearance. These procedures can help patients restore a more youthful and appealing look to their body.

Breast Augmentation

Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that involves inserting implants into the breasts to increase their size and shape.

This type of plastic surgery is often used to improve a person’s body proportions or restore volume and shape that has been lost due to age, pregnancy, or weight loss.

The procedure can help create a more aesthetically pleasing look and boost self-confidence.

Breast Reduction

Breast reduction, on the other hand, is designed to reduce the size of overly large breasts. This may be done through liposuction or surgical removal of excess tissue, as well as repositioning of the breasts for better balance and symmetry. This procedure can help alleviate physical pain or discomfort caused by large breasts, as well as provide a more appealing look and improved self-confidence.

In addition, breast reduction can be combined with other body contouring procedures such as liposuction to create an overall slimmer and more toned appearance.

Functions Supported by Plastic Surgery Procedures

Cleft Lip and Palate Repair

Cleft lip and palate repair is a specialized plastic surgery procedure used to close openings that are present in the upper lip or roof of the mouth.

This type of surgery can improve breathing, speaking, chewing, and swallowing functions, while also improving facial aesthetics.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that aims to correct deformities, enhance facial aesthetics, and improve nasal function. It involves reshaping and recontouring the nose to achieve a more balanced, harmonious, and proportionate appearance.

Rhinoplasty is a highly personalized procedure, tailored to meet the specific desires and concerns of each individual. It requires the expertise and skill of a qualified plastic surgeon and the surgeon’s ability to understand the patient’s goals, evaluate the nasal structure, and apply precise surgical techniques is crucial in achieving optimal results.

Ear Reconstruction

Ear reconstruction is a specialized procedure used to repair congenital defects or injuries to the ears. It can restore hearing, balance, and facial symmetry.

Hand Surgeries

Hand surgeries involve soft tissue reconstruction and repair of the tendons, ligaments, and muscle tissues in the hands to restore the range of motion or reduce deformities. These procedures can improve gripping strength and flexibility.

Hand Surgeries

Skin Cancer Removal

Skin cancer removal is a plastic surgery procedure used to remove tumors or other suspicious growths from the skin. This procedure can help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and improve appearance.

Otoplasty (Ear Pinning)

Otoplasty is a procedure used to reposition or reshape the ears for improved facial symmetry and aesthetics. It can also help reduce the prominence of protruding ears.

Safety Considerations When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon

Experience & Certification

In addition to certification, a plastic surgeon’s experience in performing the procedure you are interested in is also critical. Ask about the surgeon’s track record and how many procedures they have performed.

Your plastic surgeon should be certified by the Singapore Medical Council and have extensive experience in the type of surgery you are interested in. One of such surgeon is Dr Ong Wei Chen from WC Ong Plastic Surgery.

Hospital Privileges

Check to see if the surgeon has the privilege to perform the procedure at a hospital. Hospitals have strict protocols and safety standards that must be met, so having privileges is a good sign that the surgeon is qualified.

Facility Accreditation

The facility where the procedure is performed should also be accredited by a recognized agency such as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets certain safety standards and guidelines.

Anesthesia

Ensure that the surgeon is certified to administer anesthesia and that a qualified anesthesiologist will be present during the procedure. Anesthesia is a serious matter and should only be administered by a licensed professional.

Follow-Up Care

Ask about the surgeon’s follow-up care plan. Knowing what to expect after the procedure, including check-ins with the surgeon and any potential complications, is crucial in ensuring a safe and successful outcome.

Communication

Clear communication with your plastic surgeon is essential. You should feel comfortable asking questions and expressing any concerns you may have. Make sure the surgeon listens to your needs and addresses any worries you may have.

Before and After Photos

Ask to see before and after photos of the surgeon’s previous patients. This will give you an idea of their work and what you can expect from the procedure.

Cost

The cost of the procedure is also a consideration, but it should not be the only factor. Beware of surgeons who offer deeply discounted prices, as this may be a sign of a lack of experience or training.

Gut Feeling

Finally, trust your gut. If something does not feel right about a surgeon, or their facility, do not hesitate to look for another option. Your health and safety should always be a top priority.

Conclusion

Plastic surgery is a safe and effective way to improve facial aesthetics, restore lost functions, or correct deformities.

With the wide variety of procedures available from experienced surgeons, you can achieve your desired look while also improving breathing, speaking, chewing, and swallowing functions.

However, it is important to do your research when choosing a surgeon as this will ensure patient safety throughout the process.

Ultimately, plastic surgery has helped countless individuals boost their self-confidence by safely achieving their aesthetic goals.

Learn more.