Everything Plastic Surgery

What is the most popular cosmetic procedure that African Americans undergo?

2011-03-01T10:06:00.001-08:00

The most popular major cosmetic procedures requested by African Americans are nose reshaping (rhinoplasty), breast reduction/augmentation and liposuction. One should note that in general more African women today are seeking breast augmentation than all other races. The black female still leads African American men when it comes to getting a cosmetic procedure, but the men are not far behind. Black males usually get their nose reshaped, eyelids tightened, liposuction and butt surgery.

Does preservation of culture play any role in having plastic surgery among minorities?

2011-03-01T10:05:00.002-08:00

It appears that a sudden change in beliefs has led to a surge in minorities seeking cosmetic procedures. Everyone has had enough with ethics, color, diversity, philosophy and genes. Unlike the past, today we also have ethnic plastic surgeons who provide cultural sensitivity and empathize with the issues young blacks go through.

Blacks and other cultures also want to preserve their youth, turn back the clock and overcome gravity. And the world of cosmesis is just as happy to oblige – it will nip, tuck, peel, fill, pluck, plug and suction of any part of your body- all this in the name of beauty. Hell with ethnicity- just cut me up.

Cosmetic surgery is all about looking good, feeling young and having self-esteem. And looking good can mean having your nose reshaped, breast enlarged or reduced, your lips augmented, your tummy reduced, your eyes sexy, your wrinkles erased and so on. Some even want their butt lifted. And there is nothing wrong with that- different strokes for different folks!

Plastic surgery even looks great in black!

2011-03-01T10:05:00.000-08:00

The acceptance of cosmetic surgery in Blacks started gradually over the past 2 decades and has today taken most minorities by a storm. The increased availability of the internet, movies, Hollywood, and the media has glamorized plastic surgery. Our whole life is fueled with the concept of being young, pretty, youthful, sexy and being attractive. The hype is so great that many of us want to reverse the clock and never grow old- an illusion of mythological proportions has been created by Hollywood.

What has made cosmetic surgery popular among blacks and Asians?

2011-03-01T10:04:00.001-08:00

In the beginning, Asians and blacks were not keen to jump on the plastic bandwagon. Part of it was a need to maintain a certain identity and a part of it was cultural. However, the mass media and the growing influence of TV and internet have led to acceptance of cosmetic surgery by most ethnic minorities. The world of TV and the internet has made everyone realize that to look young and pretty is not a crime. Beauty is paraded everyday to us. The world of entertainment uses beauty to sell. Almost every celebrity has had some type of cosmetic procedure, so why not us. Beauty is at the heart of American culture -it signifies everything- youth, sex, money, prestige, smart and self-esteem.

Did plastic surgery make Michael Jackson look terrible?

2011-03-01T10:03:00.003-08:00

For decades, the Caucasian population has looked at their imperfections and readily sought cosmetic surgery. Now the blacks want the same thing. They want every scratch, spot, mark, scar, and all the physical flaws removed, revised or simply just cut out. In the past, cosmetic surgery was considered a taboo by many blacks. Many were even ashamed to talk about it, let alone get it done. Many ethnic minorities even believed that cosmetic surgery was only done for the very severe or disabling conditions. And when they saw Michael Jackson, their worst fears were realized. Everyone blamed the surgery and not the pop star. In reality, Michael Jackson was an aberration. He never required cosmetic surgery in the first place, but instead should have sought psychiatric help.

Are there any data on the number of plastic surgery procedures done on African Americans and Asians?

2011-03-01T10:03:00.001-08:00

Data released by the American Society of Cosmetic Surgery indicate that in the past few years, there has been a 4-fold increase in the numbers of certain ethnic groups seeking cosmetic surgery. It is estimated that in the next 20-30 years, people of color will make up 50% of the cosmetic surgery market. Estimates from the American Board of Plastic surgery indicates that close to half million cosmetic procedures were performed on African Americans in the USA. While black only made up 5% of the total number of procedures, this was a significant increase from the past 5 years and the trend appears to be increasing.

The cosmetic surgeons have few complaints, business has never been better. Last year alone it is estimated that the industry made close to $8 billion in profits (and we complain about the Wall Street CEOs who merely made $12 million!!).

Do Asians and Hispanics seek cosmetic surgery?

2011-03-01T10:02:00.003-08:00

Not to be outdone, the numbers of black individuals getting cosmetic procedures is at an all time high. Once a household Taboo, Pandora’s Box has opened and everyone is flaunting the latest thing they have had done. The surge in cosmetic procedures in minorities is seen not only in Blacks but also in Hispanics, Asians and even Indians. Everyone wants to look pretty, young and gorgeous.

Do Asians and Hispanics seek cosmetic surgery?

2011-03-01T10:02:00.001-08:00

What is the most common type of plastic surgery performed today?

2011-03-01T10:01:00.003-08:00

Plastic surgery is one of the biggest industries in the US. Nearly 12 million cosmetic procedures were performed in the USA alone. The number one cosmetic procedure on the wanted list is breast augmentation followed by liposuction. Moreover, globally, plastic surgery is on the rise. There are sites with medical tourism, a little bit of the sun, a tan and a little nick to go with it. One can go to South America, Asia, the Middle East or Africa- they all cater to the illusion of making you younger and beautiful.

I am a 22-year-old black female and am wondering if African Americans undergo plastic surgery?

2011-03-01T10:01:00.001-08:00

There was a time when cosmetic surgery was only for the wealthy and the super rich. That was some time ago. Today, cosmetic surgery is affordable by everyone and the rush to get some type of plastic nip and tuck is on the rise globally. Hollywood has perpetuated the mythology of young, pretty and ageless and this is an ideal searched by many millions of men and women all over the world. This generation, more than ever is more concerned with their image than ever before.

In the last 20 years, cosmetic surgery has blossomed into an art with addictive potential. This is the only discipline where people go under the knife for a non-health related condition- just to look beautiful. Cosmetic surgery is now sought out by individuals of all races, color, gender and ethnic background. Yes, thousands of African American men and women now seek cosmetic surgery to look beautiful- and there is nothing wrong in that.

What is the cost of breast augmentation?

2011-02-23T15:30:00.001-08:00

The cost of breast augmentation is quite variable and depends where you live and which surgeon you visit. Expensive is not always better. Since you paying the big bucks, get your money’s worth. You select the surgeon, be well read – the more prepared you are the better care you can get. Cosmetic surgery has more charlatans than Wall Street. If ever you feel that a surgeon is being pushy or has not answered your questions, go elsewhere. The cost of breast enlargement can range from $4,000-$10,000.

Can anyone undergo breast enlargement?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.007-08:00

There are no absolute reasons why one cannot have breast enlargement surgery but one should be in reasonably good health and be realistic about their expectations. Breast enlargement is generally not done for women under the age of 20 because the breasts are still growing.

Breast enlargement today is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure and most individuals get a decent result. However, there are way too many surgeons performing cosmetic surgery and while mishaps are rare, they do happen all the time. In the end the best results depends on your selection of a good surgeon.

When should one undergo breast enlargement surgery?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.005-08:00

There is no time limit on this procedure, but surely you do not want it when you are in the 50s or 60s. Most women get breast enlargement in the 20s and 30s. For those who are undecided about breast enlargement, talk to your family, friends and others who have had the surgery. Do not discuss this with the surgeon. Remember, surgeons make money doing the procedure and very few really care what you think. They just want to make the money. While there is no doubt that breast enlargement can improve your outlook and provide a sexy profile, problems with body image are not always due to the breasts. Some individuals have a problem with their thinking, which needs to be corrected. In such cases, Prozac may be the answer and not breast enlargement.

How are the results after breast enlargement surgery?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.003-08:00

Most women who under go surgery to enlarge their breasts get a satisfactory result. The large breasts can suddenly improve the physical appearance and boost self-confidence. However, all women should understand that no matter what cup size they select, breast augmentation will not change who you are as a person, how you think and what others think about you as an individual, If you were a real pain in the rear before, then you will be more of the same afterwards.

How long do the results of breast enlargement last?

2011-02-23T15:29:00.001-08:00

All consumers should know that the results of breast enlargement are not forever but will last a couple of decades. No plastic surgeon can reverse nature. In the 40s and 50s, the breast may start to sag a little and this will become obvious in the 60s. Sagging of the breasts can occur prematurely if one gets pregnant, gains weight, gets old or loses a lot of weight.

Why do women seek breast enlargement?

2011-02-23T15:28:00.005-08:00

Breast enlargement is done for several reasons:

- The female perceives that her breasts are too small and wants to improve her body image. What is too small is not defined and it is only a personal feeling

- Some females lose breast volume after pregnancy and want to restore both the size and contour

- Some females have uneven breasts and want to make the breasts symmetrical both in size and shape

- Some want to get rid of the sagging breasts

- Some want more firmer breasts with a sexy curve

- Some women want to replace the breast removed following cancer surgery

- Some women are born with a congenital malformation of the breast or have suffered trauma to the chest and would like to have a normal looking breast

Breast enlargement surgery is an art. The surgery can make the breasts look symmetrical and the size can be increased by several cups. The results are superb (unless you pick a crappy surgeon). The majority of women remain satisfied with the results.

Can you tell me what is the difference between breast implants and augmentation mammoplasty?

2011-02-23T15:28:00.003-08:00

They are the same thing but some pompous doctors like to use big words. Enlargement of the breast is also sometimes referred to as breast augmentation or medically speaking known as augmentation mammoplasty. The surgery is done to increase size and shape of the woman’s breast. The theory behind breast enlargement is very simple- a prosthesis (plastic balloon) is placed under the breast and then filled with either saline or silicone. In the majority of cases, breast enlargement is accomplished with the use of a breast implant. The implant may be placed behind the breast muscles or be placed behind the nipple- there is a big difference between the two procedures. In almost all cases, the breast size can be increased by several cup sizes. In some cases, the plastic balloon is slowly filled with more water or silicone until the desired breast size is obtained. All breast implants give the breast a full appearance with more sexy cleavage and an erotic body shape.

How is breast lift surgery done?

2011-02-23T15:28:00.001-08:00

The procedure is always done under general anesthesia and may take anywhere from 2-3 hours. Besides the risk of anesthesia, the surgery can be complicated by bleeding, infection and scarring. In individuals who smoke, the risk of obvious scarring is high. In some unfortunate individuals, there may be breast asymmetry with uneven nipple positioning. When the nipples are manipulated, there is always a chance of permanent loss of sensation. Breast lift is not a complicated procedure but there is always potential for complications. Choosing a well qualified surgeon to perform your surgery is essential for success and limit the complication.

When is the best time to undergo a breast lift procedure?

2011-02-23T15:27:00.005-08:00

It is best to consider Mastopexy after pregnancy and child bearing is completed. Women who nurse their infants should wait. Breastfeeding always reduces volume of the breasts and leaves stretch marks. Any woman planning future pregnancies should postpone surgery. There is no absolute reason why a woman can’t have Mastopexy and then have a future pregnancy. However, the woman should be aware that any future pregnancy will re-stretch the breast and cause sagging, thus making surgery futile.

What are the results like after a breast lift?

2011-02-23T15:27:00.003-08:00

The procedure is not ideal and the results are variable. One has to be realistic as to why one wants the procedure and have practical aspirations.

All females who undergo Mastopexy should be in good physical and mental health. The best surgical results are obtained in women with small sagging breasts. Even though Mastopexy can be done for very large breasts, the results of surgery are not durable or aesthetically pleasing.

Is a breast lift procedure permanent?

2011-02-23T15:27:00.001-08:00

Breast lift or Mastopexy is a surgical procedure which can elevate and reshape the breast. The procedure is not a permanent cure but can temporarily reverse the sagging breast. Sometimes the procedure is combined with implants to restore the volume and increase both tone and size of the breasts. The breast lift procedure is strictly a cosmetic procedure. It can help one regain self confidence and improve the outer appearance but it still does not change your inner feelings, personality or how you think.

I am 33 and my breasts have started to sag. Why is that?

2011-02-23T15:26:00.007-08:00

Sagging breasts are common in many women. By the time women are in their 3^rd decade of life, signs of breast sagging are evident. Sagging of the breast is progressively faster after pregnancy, breast feeding and advanced age. The ligaments which normally hold the breast taut, loosen up and the skin loses its elasticity. The overall result is a very loose breast with no firmness. Today there is a treatment for sagging breasts-mastopexy.

I have had a simple mastectomy and would like to have my breast reconstructed. Are there any side effects I should know off beforehand?

2011-02-23T15:26:00.005-08:00

Although breast reconstructive surgery is generally a safe procedure, some side effects and complications are inevitable. Breast reconstructive surgery is an elective produce and one should never be rushed into it. Discuss all you options and the possible side effects with the surgeon. The possible risks of breast reconstructive surgery include:

- bleeding

- infection

- failure of the skin to heal

- risks of anesthesia

- numbness

- asymmetry of the breast

- pain

These side effects and complications tend to occur in 2-7 percent of women. Breast reconstructive surgery is done as an outpatient procedure and thus one should have a family member available to drive you home afterwards. The procedure may take anywhere from 2-4 hours and requires general anesthesia. In some cases, an overnight stay in the hospital may be required

How are the results after breast reconstruction?

2011-02-23T15:26:00.003-08:00

Despite the fact that reconstructive breast surgery is highly technically refined, the results are very variable and not all individuals have the same result. In the majority of cases, the reconstructed breast has many areas of numbness and this feeing is permanent. Some individuals may develop an extremely hypersensitive nipple- even the slightest touch will cause pain.

Unlike breast implant surgery, reconstructive surgery has a number of conspicuous surgical incisions. Some of these may be from the previous mastectomy. In some cases of breast reconstruction, only one breast is built-up. To make the other breast look similar, a breast lift, breast implant or breast augmentation may be required. In most cases, plastic surgeons do a decent job. However, there is a dearth of plastic surgeons and there are many who suck. So choose your surgeon well.

I have breasts which do not match in size. Is there anything that I can do about it?

2011-02-23T15:26:00.001-08:00

Sure, Breast reconstruction is a great surgical technique whereby the breast is reconstructed to mimic the original breast. Reconstructive breast surgery is commonly performed after removing a breast cancer. Other cases where reconstruction is carried out include:

- congenital breast defects

- asymmetrical breasts

- trauma induced damage to the breast

- failure of breast implant surgery

Breast reconstruction can be done in several ways. Breast reconstruction has become a major method of restoring a breast back to its normal shape and size following a mastectomy.