Is Plastic Surgery Right For You?
It’s easy to think about, especially once you reach a certain age. Nothing can stop the slow march of time, but plastic surgery can take a few years off your face and make you feel younger, if nothing else. But it’s a big decision, and you need to take a few factors into consideration before you make an appointment.
Why Do You Want It?
There are people who say “natural is always better” and believe there’s no good reason to ever tinker with what Mother Nature gave you. These people are probably not much fun at parties. The truth is, it’s your body and no one else’s. Only you can decide if and when it should be altered. It’s easy to say that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but people are people, not pieces of fine art hanging in a gallery. We live and breathe and think and feel. And we age, and aging isn’t always fun, although as your grandma alway said, “It’s better than the alternative.”
If you’ve been mulling over plastic surgery, think about who you would be getting it for. The best answer by far is “Myself.” Sure, people will probably notice, and you may get some compliments, but you should do it because it’s something you think would improve your quality of life. It’s not a good idea to do it because your husband wishes you had a bigger bust, or because your mother always told you you should get a nose job. There can be tremendous pressure in some circles to go under the knife (it seems like almost everyone in show business has had at least something done), but it has to be something you’re happy with. It won’t guarantee you a better job or a hotter love life. You’ll still be the same person, except with a slightly different exterior.
Work Your Way Up
So if you’ve looked deep within yourself and believe that yes, this is something you truly want, it’s time to find a cosmetic surgeon and schedule a consultation. You want a doctor who has plenty of experience, one who will be honest with you about the pros and cons of each procedure.
You can also start small. Injectables are a good idea for people who aren’t sure if they’re quite ready to go under the knife. The neurotoxin known as Botox is one of the most popular treatments for wrinkles and fine lines. It’s even been used on people who suffer from debilitating migraines. There is a needle involved, and that won’t feel great, but a skilled physician can work out the right injection schedule for you. You don’t want to be one of those actresses with a frozen forehead, and you won’t be as long as you use Botox responsibly.
Aside from that, there are dermal fillers that do just what they sound like: fill in your face by stimulating collagen production. You lose collagen as you age, and so a fuller face is often perceived as younger.
Other, more invasive procedures include face lifts, brow lifts, upper and lower eyelid surgery, cheek augmentation, and chin and cheek implantation. Your doctor will go over each procedure in detail before you undergo surgery. Remember that you can always change your mind if you have any doubts or misgivings. If you’re not sure, it’s better to reschedule and take some time to figure out if this is truly right for you. You’re the only one who has to live with your face, after all. If you don’t like what you see in the mirror, then it doesn’t matter what anyone else thinks.
