Plastic Surgery: Is it a Boon or Bane?

Plastic surgery, a term encompassing a broad spectrum of surgical procedures, has evolved from its origins as a battlefield-necessitated practice into a sophisticated medical discipline with far-reaching implications.

In contemporary society, plastic surgery stands as both a symbol of modern medical achievement and a controversial subject of debate. Its impact on personal and societal levels invites scrutiny, presenting a dual narrative where it can be seen as a boon to many or a bane to others.

While it undeniably offers transformative benefits, it also presents a complex array of ethical, psychological, and physical challenges.

Broadly, plastic surgery can be categorised into two distinct branches: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. While both involve surgical manipulation of the body, their underlying goals and ethical implications differ significantly.

Reconstructive Surgery

Reconstructive surgery often involves multiple surgical stages and a multidisciplinary team approach. The goal is not merely to restore appearance but to optimise function and minimise physical and psychological sequelae.

Reconstructive plastic surgery plays a crucial role in treating congenital deformities such as cleft lip and palate, craniosynostosis (premature fusion of skull bones), and syndactyly (webbed fingers). These conditions affect physical appearance and can lead to functional impairments and social stigma.

For example, cleft lip and palate are among the most common congenital deformities, affecting approximately 1 in 700 babies globally. These conditions can cause feeding, speech, and hearing difficulties, often leading to social challenges. Reconstructive surgery can correct these issues, significantly enhancing the individual’s quality of life, improving self-esteem, and fostering better social integration.

• Trauma reconstruction: This branch deals with the repair of facial and bodily injuries caused by accidents, burns, or violence. It involves procedures such as skin grafting, flap surgery, and microsurgery to restore lost tissue and function.
• Oncologic reconstruction: This area focuses on reconstructing body parts after cancer surgery. Breast reconstruction following mastectomy is a prime example, but it also encompasses the reconstruction of other body parts affected by cancer treatment.
• Congenital reconstruction: This involves correcting birth defects such as cleft lip and palate, hand anomalies, and craniofacial abnormalities.
• Burn reconstruction: This speciality focuses on the complex care of burn patients, including wound closure, skin grafting, contracture release, and scar management.

Aesthetic Surgery

Aesthetic surgery aims to enhance a person's appearance rather than restore function. It is driven by the patient's desire for improvement and is typically elective, meaning it is not medically necessary.

• Facial cosmetic surgery: This includes procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), facelift, and otoplasty (ear correction).
• Body contouring surgery: This involves procedures like liposuction, abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), breast augmentation, and reduction mammoplasty.
• Intimate surgery: This category encompasses procedures such as labiaplasty and penile augmentation.

While aesthetic surgery can boost self-esteem and body image, it is crucial to approach it with realistic expectations and a thorough understanding of the risks and benefits. The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery should be based on personal desire and not on societal pressures or unrealistic ideals.

It is also important to note that the distinction between reconstructive and cosmetic surgery is not always clear-cut. Some procedures, such as breast reduction for pain relief or rhinoplasty for breathing difficulties, can have both reconstructive and cosmetic benefits.

Additionally, advancements in surgical techniques and technologies have blurred the lines between the two branches.

“One of the most immediate benefits of plastic surgery is the enhancement of physical appearance. Procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), breast augmentation, liposuction  and hair transplantation can significantly alter a person’s looks, aligning their external appearance with their inner self-image. This alignment can lead to a substantial boost in self-esteem.” -Dr. Kriti Lohia, MBBS, DDVL, CEO & Medical Director,Aesthetics Redefined, Consultant Dermatologist & Dermatosurgeon

So, is it a boon or bane?

The psychological benefits of plastic surgery extend beyond enhanced self-esteem. Many individuals report reduced anxiety and depression following their procedures. This is particularly true for those who have long-term dissatisfaction with their appearance. By addressing these concerns, plastic surgery can alleviate negative emotions and promote mental well-being.

Procedures such as rhinoplasty (nose reshaping), breast augmentation, liposuction, and hair transplantation can dramatically alter a person’s appearance, helping align their external looks with their internal self-image. This alignment often results in a substantial boost in self-esteem. When individuals feel good about their appearance, they frequently experience increased self-confidence, positively affecting various aspects of their lives, from personal relationships to professional opportunities.

“The psychological benefits of plastic surgery extend beyond improved self-esteem. Many individuals report a reduction in anxiety and depression following their procedures. This is particularly true for those who have lived with long-term dissatisfaction or distress related to their appearance. By addressing these concerns, plastic surgery can help alleviate negative emotions and promote mental well-being.” - DrSanjay Parashar,Co-founder, Consultant Plastic surgeon,Aesthetics Redefined, MBBS, MS (Gen Surg), DNB (Plastic Surg.), Mch (Plastic Surg.)

Additionally, minimally invasive aesthetic dermato-surgery can address skin issues such as acne scars, moles, dark spots, and more. By improving skin appearance, individuals often find a new sense of confidence, leading to greater engagement in social and professional activities.

While it can be a catalyst for positive body image and increased self-confidence, it can also exacerbate underlying psychological issues such as body dysmorphic disorder (BDD), a condition characterized by obsessive preoccupation with perceived flaws. Individuals with BDD may undergo multiple procedures in a futile attempt to achieve an unattainable ideal, leading to a vicious cycle of dissatisfaction and dependence.

If you’re opting for it, it’s always advisable to get the procedure done by trained professionals, who have an experience in this field.

Plastic Surgery is a complex and multifaceted field with both profound benefits and significant challenges. While it has the power to transform lives and restore physical function, it also carries risks and ethical implications. The decision to undergo plastic surgery is a deeply personal one that should be made in consultation with qualified healthcare professionals and after careful consideration of all factors. It is essential to approach plastic surgery with realistic expectations, a focus on overall well-being, and a critical awareness of the societal pressures that shape our perceptions of beauty.

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