The field of plastic surgery has made strides in the past few decades. The practice is always evolving, and always striving for better techniques and better results. According to a study in the Journal of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, new technical improvements in the field allow patients to maintain a natural look, even after three or more face-lifts.
Before undergoing a procedure, one of the most frequently cited concerns is achieving natural-looking results. Here are a few tips to help you in that regard:
- Pick a trusted doctor. If plastic surgery is the route for you, you should only work with a board-certified surgeon. Ask to see before and after photos of their work to ensure they have experience creating natural-looking results. If their work is not up to your standards, move on until you find the right doctor that’s the perfect fit for you. At the end of the day, it’s your body.
- Choose realistic goals. There was once a time when a face-lift meant “pulled” and “obvious.” But these days, the end-result should be “refreshed” and “relaxed.” Going into any procedure, know that even the best doctor can’t turn the clock back 20 years, nor should you want them to. You and your doctor should choose an outcome that will have you looking like your best you.
- Utilize the right procedures for you. Think about seeing your dentist and saying you want whiter, nicer teeth. There are a number of ways to achieve that look—a simple cleaning, teeth whitening, or even veneers. You and your dentist would go through your options and pick the best plan of action. There’s no difference when working with a plastic surgeon. If you’re looking for a more natural-looking change, ask and discuss all your options. Depending on your desired look, there might not be any need to go under the knife at all!
- Focus on recovery. Plastic surgery doesn’t end when you leave your doctor’s office. The days immediately following your surgery are very important in achieving your doctor’s intended results. Be well rested and in good health before and after the procedure. And discuss exercise with your doctor. Mild exercise can be good for your recovery, but you don’t want to do any heavy lifting in the three weeks following your procedure.
- Work with your doctor to maintain your results. Following up with your doctor isn’t just about the recovery process. While you’re always the best judge of how your body feels, it’s important to set and keep follow-up appointments so you doctor can monitor how you’re progressing. Your doctor will also suggest maintaining a healthy lifestyle, whether that means quitting smoking, exercising more, eating the right foods, or taking better care of your skin.
From start to finish, there are a number of factors that go into achieving natural-looking results with plastic surgery. Once you find the right doctor, it’s important to work with them. They’ll be your partner in making you into your best you.
