3 MYTHS ABOUT
PLASTIC SURGERY

Roughly 11 million cosmetic plastic surgery procedures were performed in the U.S. in 2006, up 7 percent from 2005. Fortunately, patients are becoming more educated about the risks and rewards, however many misconceptions remain.

MYTH #1

You won’t scar. In any type of surgery, scarring takes place. When a surgeon cuts through the skin, the body creates scar tissue in that spot as it heals. Scarring varies, depending on the procedure, as well as the patient’s skin type and how he/she cares for the skin post-op.

MYTH #2

A “mini” facelift gives the same results as a full facelift.
Untrue. A mini facelift rejuvenates the lower third of the face, including the jowls and neck, and can be appropriate for some patients, but it can’t do as much for drooping skin as a full facelift.

MYTH #3

Your face will look perfect after surgery.
Realistically, you can expect a cosmetic surgery procedure to make you look younger, but you can’t ask your surgeon to make you look like a completely different person. Plastic surgery can’t restore your youth or turn you into a movie star.

START SMART

Forging ahead with a new diet and fitness plan? Set a goal that is doable, says Dr. Liz Applegate, Director of Sports Nutrition at the University of California at Davis. Instead of telling yourself you need to lose 40-50 lbs, focus on trying to lose 10-15. Begin exercising two to three days a week rather than setting lofty goals that may be out of reach, like exercising every day. This way progress towards your goal feels more successful, and you’re more likely to stick with the plan.