Cosmetic Surgery Is Not Always The Answer Says UK Doctor

LONDON - May 14, 2015 - PRLog -- Allen Rezai MD, well-known plastic and cosmetic surgeon of Harley Street, London, declares that in spite of the ever-growing number of patients queuing up to take advantage of his expertise and skills, cosmetic surgery is not always the right solution.

First of all a few definitions are in order, since many medical and quasi-medical terms are in vogue in the media with apparently little thought as to their correct usage and meaning, regularly leaving patients overwhelmed by mis-information and information overload. To set the record straight Dr Allen Rezai, Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon of Harley Street, London, and also founder of Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Group in Dubai Healthcare City, explained "I assume that when talking about Plastic Surgery, you really mean Cosmetic Surgery. As normally, Plastic Surgery focuses on repairing and reconstructing abnormal structures of the body caused by birth defects, developmental abnormalities, trauma, infection, tumours or disease, whereas Cosmetic Surgery is a type of Plastic Surgery that alter one’s appearance."

Social pressure and a sometimes idealised and unrealistic expectation of what is possible, combined with a growing awareness of the affordability of Cosmetic Surgery to a wider sector of the populace has also lead people to seek both surgical an non-surgical solutions at an increasingly younger age. This has been exacerbated by certain unscrupulous clinics and practitioners in various parts of the world actually marketing to the fears and desires of susceptible individuals rather than to their real needs. To avoid problems such as this, a reputable and responsible Cosmetic Surgery practice will typically provide clear advice and guidance to potential patients prior to accepting to undertake a surgical procedure. Dr Rezai explains that "There have been times when patients have come to us without any genuine necessity for the surgery they are requesting. Many look into the mirror and see what they really want to see. I provide a very lengthy and thorough consultation where I closely question the patient and look for any underlying psychological problems. If I detect any such issues, I always direct the patient to a psychologist for counseling. For instance, a little while ago, I had a middle-aged woman who came in for a breast enlargement procedure. On close questioning I realized that she was suffering from psychological trauma following divorce. Her husband had left her for a younger woman. I advised her to undergo counseling and wait for a year before this surgery. She followed the advice and returned to me after a year. This time, following an in-depth consultation, I was convinced that she was undergoing the surgery not because of any other psychological trigger or trauma, I agreed. She has since become more calm, confident and happy following the surgery. That one step alone has changed her temperament and confidence. However, sometimes when we advise a patient to undergo counseling, the chances are that they will find an unscrupulous surgeon somewhere who will be willing to help them quickly without proper evaluation. For this reason it is absolutely vital for a patient to see at least two or three surgeons prior to making up his or her mind to undergo surgery."

In the 45 minute consultation that Dr Rezai dedicates to each patient, his object is always to arrive at a mutual understanding. "I really try to understand why the patient is wanting to undergo the surgery," says Dr Rezai. "I explain to them the procedure, the indications for surgery, and the pros and cons of surgery, and then I ask them to go home and reflect on what we discussed during consultation and then come back to see me for a second consultation. I make a decision on a case-by-case basis and the principles of plastic surgery. If the patient has an indication for surgery and realistic expectations then I will proceed, if not I decline the patient with an explanation as to why. Most patients understand and appreciate this."

To conclude, Dr Rezai provided a list of what he believes to be the most important considerations to be taken into account when contemplating Cosmetic Surgery and choosing a surgeon:

• Think about the change you want to see, then research and find out as much information as possible about the treatment, being precise about what you want and, above all, be open to all your wishes not being achievable.

• Find a qualified plastic surgeon experienced in the desired procedure, making sure that he or she is board certified. Also look for “genuine” reviews and feedback from previous patients.

• Have consultations with at least 2 or 3 qualified and experienced surgeons, just to have something to compare and cross-check.

• Be honest about your medical history and discuss all aspects of the surgery with the plastic surgeon. Do not be afraid to ask questions, since it is important to know the risks involved and feel comfortable with the person who will be carrying out the surgery. The plastic surgeon should be able to explain why they recommend a certain type of treatment option or technique, as with all cosmetic surgery, the type of technique used depends on many factors involving the patient’s indication for treatment, anatomy and lifestyle, and a treatment plan should be tailored to suit the specific needs of the patient.

• Find out what type of care is offered before, during, and especially after the surgery as aftercare can be just as important as the surgery itself. So make sure you know who to contact and how you will be looked after, especially if there are any complications or problems following your surgery. Also find out where the surgery will be performed, as this can have major implications on safety during the operation and the occurrence of possible risks and complications.

• Last but not least, "cool off" before you commit. Cosmetic Surgery should not be taken lightly, as it is after all a surgery. Take your time and reflect on all aspects of the procedure, and make sure you understand all the implications involved before you make an informed decision to proceed.

ABOUT DR REZAI:

Dr Allen Rezai is a Consultant Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeonwith clinics in Harley Street, London, UK and at Elite Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery Groupin Dubai Healthcare City, UAE. Further information can be obtained from his website at http://allenrezaimd.co.uk