Plastic surgeries
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Plastic surgeries are surgical procedures performed to change, reconstruct, or improve the appearance and function of selected areas of the body. They include both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures carried out for medical reasons (e.g., after injuries, cancers, congenital defects). Plastic surgery is a distinct medical specialty based on precise anatomical knowledge, principles of tissue healing, and the biomechanics of the skin and deeper structures. Modern plastic surgeries utilize advanced surgical and anesthetic techniques; however, despite medical advancements, they remain invasive procedures requiring medical qualifications, appropriate patient preparation, and a conscious assessment of risks.
Plastic surgery - what it is
Plastic surgeries are surgical procedures involving:
- modeling of soft tissues (skin, subcutaneous tissue, muscles),
- intervention in bone and cartilage structures,
- reconstruction of anatomical defects,
- correction of congenital or acquired deformities.
Two main areas of plastic surgery are distinguished:
- cosmetic surgery – aimed at improving appearance,
- reconstructive surgery – aimed at restoring function and anatomy.
The goal of surgery is not solely the visual effect, but also:
- improving body proportions,
- restoring proper tissue function,
- reducing pain or movement limitations,
- enhancing the patient's quality of life.
Each procedure requires individual qualification, taking into account the patient's health condition, expectations, and realistic surgical possibilities.
Plastic surgeries – types of procedures
The range of plastic surgery is very broad and covers various anatomical areas. They are most commonly classified according to location and the purpose of the procedure.
Face and neck surgeries:
- eyelid correction (blepharoplasty),
- face and neck lift,
- nose correction (rhinoplasty),
- ear surgery,
- reconstructive procedures after injuries and cancer.
Breast surgeries:
- breast augmentation,
- breast reduction,
- breast lift,
- breast reconstruction after mastectomy.
Body contouring surgeries:
- abdominoplasty,
- liposuction,
- contouring after massive weight loss,
- thigh, arm, and buttock corrections.
Reconstructive surgery:
- treatment of scars and contractures,
- post-traumatic reconstructions,
- corrections of congenital defects,
- procedures after oncological treatment.
The choice of surgical technique depends on the patient's anatomy, the severity of the problem, and the expected functional and aesthetic outcome.
Plastic Surgery – Possible Complications
Like any surgical intervention, plastic surgeries are associated with the risk of complications. Their frequency depends on the type of procedure, the patient's health condition, and adherence to postoperative recommendations.
The most common complications include:
- hematomas and swelling,
- infections of the operated site,
- delayed wound healing,
- sensation disturbances,
- abnormal scarring.
Less frequently, the following may occur:
- tissue necrosis,
- asymmetries requiring correction,
- thromboembolic complications,
- reactions to anesthesia.
Informed consent from the patient should always include a discussion of potential risks, realistic outcomes, and the necessity of a recovery period. Minimizing risk requires proper qualification, the surgeon's experience, and post-operative monitoring.
The most popular plastic surgeries
The most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures include:
- breast augmentation and reduction,
- upper and lower eyelid correction,
- liposuction,
- tummy tuck,
- nose correction,
- face and neck lift.
The popularity of these procedures is due to:
- high predictability of results,
- significant improvement in body or facial proportions,
- impact on the physical and psychological comfort of patients.
However, it should be emphasized that "popularity" should not be a criterion for choosing a procedure. The decision to undergo plastic surgery should be based on a thorough medical consultation, realistic indications, and a conscious approach to the possibilities and limitations of plastic surgery.
