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What is Plastic Surgery
and who is it for?
The beginnings of Plastic Surgery history are dated to the ancient period
of 7th century B.C., when reconstructive facial procedures were performed
by Indian doctors to restore facial injuries. Amputations of the nose
and the ears were commonly used by the conquerors at that time to punish
the inhabitants of the defeated cities in different wars.
The purpose of those methods and their development through the centuries
was the restoration of the facial appearance and function. The real purpose
was however the restoration of the person and his personality.
Several centuries later, Plastic Surgery has been established as a branch
of Medicine to perform procedures at the surface as well as inside the
body.
The term Plastic Surgery comes from the Greek word `plasis` which means
creation. Creating the harmonious features, creating youthful appearance,
normal movement and expression, protecting the functions, restoring anomalies,
reconstructing parts of the face as well as the body are the challenging
targets of Plastic Surgery.
Patients are seeking plastic surgery for both cosmetic and reconstructive
reasons. When we analyze their motives and expectations, we often come
to the conclusion that to the patient the problem is very serious. The
problem could be either major or a minor one and if a function is affected
then this usually causes further anxiety to the patient. No one wishes
to undergo an operation for just a little improvement. All patients expect
the best or the ideal result.
The shape and the movement of our body forms a picture in our mind, which
is exactly the picture of us as a person as well as a personality. A part
of this picture is composed by the perception we have of the way our mental
features are expressed. Any injury of this picture can cause serious psychological
problems. Problems may also be caused by an ugly congenital feature, or
a problem which has appeared later in life.
If we try to justify how many nice or normal expressions can be made by
a disfigured eyelid, or lip, we will say, none. These are such small areas;
however the problems can create so much trouble!
Psychological problems which are caused by disfigurement or dissatisfaction
with the appearance are often not given high importance, but many times
this may affect the whole life of the patient including his sex life,
social activities, his feelings as well as his confidence, and effectiveness
in their working environment. Some patients learn to cope; however, many
times the only solution is plastic surgery .
The expressed happiness after all the successful plastic surgery procedures
explains the high importance of treating our problems and not trying to
love them by oppressing ourselves.
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