A comprehensive guide to keeping your natural look without the fear of becoming someone or something else. We look at 8 ways to enhance your looks without compromising your health.
In the realm of cosmetic surgery, achieving a natural and enhanced appearance is akin to mastering a subtle art form. Patients embark on this journey with hopes of enhancing their natural features, aiming for results that seamlessly blend with their existing beauty. But, nobody wants to look overly fake, botched, or unnatural. This article is meant to help you sidestep looking “overdone.”.
With significant investments of time, money, and emotion on the line, patients are rightfully discerning about their choices. So, how can one navigate this delicate balance and emerge with results that exude enhanced natural beauty?
Dr. Gopal Grandhige, the founder of Formation, says, “Patients who have ‘good work’ done just look ‘great for their age.’” He says that’s the goal, and trying too hard to rewind the clock of time can lead to that uncanny look.
He explains that the goal should be to accentuate your naturally God-given features and expose or reveal areas hidden by loose skin or fatty deposits. “At Formation, we do not make one person look like somebody else,” Grandhige says.
One issue people have is that they think they can show their surgeon a photo of a celebrity and expect to look like them post-operation magically. “Pictures of others can be useful to explain what problem areas they see in themselves, but pictures should not be used to say ‘I want to look like this, make me look like this,’” he explains.
Here are eight things—plus an extra bonus—to remember so you don’t look like an irreversible Frankenstein science experiment post-operation.
Central to any successful cosmetic surgery endeavor is the choice of surgeon. Researching and selecting a highly skilled and reputable cosmetic surgeon is paramount. Board certification is fundamental, ensuring the surgeon possesses the necessary expertise and qualifications to perform cosmetic procedures. Moreover, scrutinizing the surgeon’s track record for delivering natural-looking results is crucial.
As Dr. Grandhige advises, “Good surgeons can come from anywhere. Nonetheless, since you have to pick one, these are things that you can look for: years of experience, bedside manner—meaning, do they hear you and your requests?” Additionally, firsthand reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations offer valuable insights into the surgeon’s proficiency and the overall experience of previous patients.
“In surgery and after surgery, things can occasionally go wrong. You want somebody who’s not going to avoid you. You want to feel comfortable about heading in for post-op appointments,” Grandhige says. “So, try to get a good read on the staff’s energy towards helping patients post-operatively.
A cardinal rule in cosmetic surgery is to maintain realistic expectations. Unrealistic goals often lead to dissatisfaction and can contribute to the dreaded appearance of overdone surgery.
Understanding the limitations of cosmetic procedures is vital. For instance, individuals seeking breast augmentation must consider their body type and skin elasticity to ensure proportional and natural-looking results.
Similarly, comprehending the distinction between procedures, such as liposuction and body lifting, prevents unrealistic expectations and fosters a more informed decision-making process.
Adherence to pre- and post-surgical instructions prescribed by your surgeon is crucial for optimal outcomes. These guidelines are designed to facilitate proper healing and minimize the risk of complications. By diligently following these instructions, patients can enhance their chances of achieving the desired aesthetic results while mitigating the likelihood of overdone surgery.
Social media has led to the assumption that results are immediate. Before-and-after pictures are misleading and do not show all the aftercare involved in optimizing results. Make sure to learn from your surgeon and their staff what aftercare looks like and make appropriate arrangements.
For people opting for non-surgical interventions like Botox and fillers, selecting a proficient injector is paramount. A thorough understanding of facial anatomy and extensive experience in injectables ensures safe and natural-looking results. Experienced injectors should have social proof of their experience available to see, whether on social media or their website.
Make sure their style aligns with what you are looking for. If you are a guy, look for an injector with many male clients. If you want to have your lips done, focus on the images representing lip filler. Prioritize providers who demonstrate a commitment to ongoing education and adhere to the highest standards of practice.
Ask yourself, “Why is this tummy tuck so cheap?” Because while cost is undoubtedly a consideration, some deals are too good to be true. Steep discounts may indicate compromises in the quality of care or the use of substandard materials, potentially jeopardizing safety and results. If you do not get to meet with your surgeon until the day of your procedure, this is a red flag. Prioritize value over price, prioritizing providers offering transparent pricing and patient safety.
Requesting to view before and after pictures of previous patients with similar features and concerns provides invaluable insights into the provider’s expertise and aesthetic sensibilities. By assessing these images, patients can gauge the surgeon’s ability to achieve natural-looking results and determine if they align with their aesthetic goals.
Dr. Grandhige highlights two critical points. Firstly, everybody has a unique body shape, and you can’t expect to achieve the exact results of someone else. Setting realistic goals that align with one’s body type and limitations is essential.
Secondly, it is best to avoid providers not showcasing their previous work, as it may indicate a lack of confidence in their results.
Opting for a provider around the corner is convenient, but prices are sometimes better in other countries and states. But imagine being on a plane or a bumpy car ride post-surgery—not fun.
Getting treatment locally at home or in a hotel ensures adherence to stringent medical standards and facilitates accessibility for follow-up appointments. American providers are subject to regulatory oversight, providing patients with added assurance regarding safety and accountability throughout the treatment process—this is a green flag.
In the unlikely scenario that an issue or complication occurs, having the surgeon who performed your initial surgery fix it always leads to the best outcome. They will know what they did and the techniques they used, which is critical to treating an issue efficiently.
Lastly, exercising restraint and avoiding the temptation to undergo multiple procedures simultaneously is crucial in preventing overdone surgery. A gradual and strategic approach allows for careful outcomes assessment and ensures a harmonious and natural-looking transformation. Remember, patience is paramount in the pursuit of enduring beauty.
While aesthetic surgery can lead to physical improvements, understanding and addressing the psychological aspects are equally important for overall patient well-being. As people in this space, we should continue to promote informed discussions about plastic surgery and reduce any unnecessary stigma associated with it.
In conclusion, navigating the realm of cosmetic surgery requires careful consideration and informed decision-making. By researching reputable surgeons, setting realistic expectations, and prioritizing safety and quality, individuals can avoid the pitfalls of overdone cosmetic surgery and emerge with results that seamlessly enhance their natural beauty. Remember, the goal is not to erase but to enhance—one subtle touch at a time.