Cosmetic reconstructive surgery repairs physical defects caused by disease, aging, burns and various types of injuries. The focus of cosmetic reconstructive surgery is not only to improve appearance, but also to allow normal functioning as well. Maxillofacial surgeons use a wide variety of techniques and there are many different types of procedures used to correct various conditions.
Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are specially trained in treating the facial area including the mouth and jaws. They complete many years of education and complete specific training in order to work with soft and hard tissue facial medical problems, which sometimes require surgery to resolve.
Is Cosmetic Surgery Right for You?
There are several reasons an individual may be interested in cosmetic surgery. Surgery might be needed because of a birth defect that impairs function or affects appearance. Other times it might be considered to fix scars from an accident or simply to improve personal looks.
Many times, multiple procedures may be required to address all the issues present and all procedures might be completed within one scheduled surgery. Recovery time and healing after this type of surgery is normally relatively moderate, typically handled with pain medication for a brief amount of time.
Before a maxillofacial surgeon will consider a patient for cosmetic reconstructive surgery, they perform a detailed exam and review a patient’s medical history. Additionally, they perform a full consultation about what the patient can expect in the surgery process as well as expected outcomes and associated risks.
Most cosmetic surgery is completed at your oral surgeon’s office on an outpatient basis. However, if circumstances require, it may be completed at a hospital on an inpatient basis. The maxillofacial surgeon makes the final determination of location and outpatient or inpatient.
Keep Your Expectations Realistic
Most patients experience a boost in self-confidence after surgery. However, it is important to remember; cosmetic surgery will only refine existing features and does not provide a completely different look or different life. The degree of change in an individual’s appearance depends on many factors such as texture of the skin, age and overall health. Having realistic expectations and discussing the possible outcomes with your surgeon is an extremely important part of the process.
Final results are not always apparent immediately following surgery. It normally requires a brief healing period for the final degree of change to appear. Depending on the procedure, you may have some bruising and swelling immediately after surgery, which will take time to heal and is very normal. Your surgeon will outline expected healing timeframes and let you know what to expect throughout the healing process.
Cosmetic surgery is often considered elective and not covered by health insurance, so it is important to check your coverage and consult with your surgeon regarding coverage. Additionally, much the same as any other type of surgery, cosmetic surgery does have risks and you should discuss the risks in detail with your maxillofacial surgeon before making a decision.
Cosmetic surgery should not be taken lightly or decided to quickly. All surgery is serious and this type of surgery can change your appearance permanently. If you believe you are a good candidate for cosmetic surgery, we will be happy to discuss your options with you and answer all of your questions.
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