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.