Cosmetic Surgery Myths

Myth #1

If a doctor says he is a plastic surgeon he must be.

Truth
Any doctor can claim to be a plastic surgeon. There is no legal requirement for doctors to have special training in cosmetic surgery before claiming to be a specialist. For this reason it is crucial that you research your doctor’s background and, at the least, verify that he has been certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Membership in the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery signifies further specialization and experience in cosmetic surgery.

Myth #2

Shopping for the lowest price is the best way to choose a cosmetic surgeon.

Truth
Be leery of plastic surgeons offering bargain basement prices. A reputable cosmetic surgeon does not have to use low prices to draw in patients, and one who does so may not be offering the quality of work or standards of safety that you deserve.

Myth #3

Cosmetic surgery is a luxury reserved for the rich and famous.

Truth
Attaining the look that you want is no longer a fantasy. As cosmetic surgery has become a more popular and common option for improving appearance, financing options have become available, putting the option in reach for more people. You do not have to be rich to afford the look you wish to achieve.

Myth #4

Cosmetic surgery is painless and leaves no scars.

Truth
Though it’s an elective procedure, plastic and cosmetic surgery is still real surgery. As with any surgery, some procedures are more painful than others, and Dr. Bottger will inform you of what to expect from each type of procedure.

Likewise, all incisions will cause some scarring. By careful placement of incisions, and by keeping the incision as small as possible, Dr. Bottger minimizes the visibility of scars, but it’s impossible to eliminate scarring completely.

Myth #5

Minimal procedures with no down time can produce maximal results.

Truth
Everyone desires significant results from a procedure but without significant recovery time. This has, unfortunately, created an environment where certain procedures are heavily marketed, claiming dramatic long term improvements with little or no down time. This is particularly evident in facial plastic surgery with variously termed procedures such as "quick lifts", "lunchtime lifts" and "thread lifts".

Although excellent results are obtained in appropriate patients with less invasive short scar endoscopic techniques which we employ, there is still a recovery time in general of several weeks before signs of surgical intervention are not evident.

If a surgical procedure has little or no recovery time it is unlikely to produce significant long term improvements. Beware of claims of dramatic results with little or no down time.

If you are thinking about having cosmetic surgery and are confused about what to expect, contact Dr. Bottger today to schedule a initial consultation.

• Your Questions