Plastic
surgery is recognized by certifiable associations as the surgery to repair
defects of form or function, which includes cosmetic surgery and
reconstructive surgery; whereas, cosmetic surgery refers to surgery that is
designed to improve appearance.
The problem with this is that in other countries, many doctors that
are not qualified as surgeons also perform cosmetic procedures. This
increases the risk of plastic surgery, when a non-board surgeon is
performing the surgery. Critics of plastic surgery also not that the
danger lies not in the actual surgery, but in the administration of the
anesthetic. An incorrect does of anesthetic can be fatal for those that
would have otherwise have had no problems with the surgical procedure.
Reconstructive surgery also has risks and uncertainties, such as the
possibility of infection, bleeding, blood clots and adverse reactions to
anesthesia. Critics of plastic surgery generally advise patients that
their risks can be reduced by choosing a qualified plastic surgeon and
closely following his or her advice, before and after surgery.
Plastic Surgery Pros
Plastic surgery also has several advantages, especially in the area
of reconstructive surgery. Reconstructive surgery is used to correct
deficiencies that would otherwise have no means of treatment.
Reconstructive surgery has...
It can also be used to
repair injuries suffered in accidents, and has led to saving limbs and
restoring joints that otherwise would be irreparable. Burns can be
repaired by skin grafting, and facial injuries involving extensive dental
repair are common procedures for plastic surgery, that can improve an
individual's self esteem as well as their ability to perform usual and
normal functions. Additionally, the field of plastic surgery has widely
grown, increasing the accuracy of procedures. Finally, as innovations in
this area allow plastic surgery to flourish, the restoration of normal
human form and function will become safer.
Bibliography
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. (2006). The History of Plastic
Surgery, ASPS and
PSEF. Retrieved November 20, 2006 from
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/History.cfm?
Ciaschini, M. (2005). The History of Plastic Surgery. Retrieved November
20, 2006
from http://www.emedicine.com/plastic/topic433.htm
Johnson, D. & Whitworth, I. (2002). Recent Developments in Plastic Surgery.
BMJ,
325(7359): 319.
McDowell, F. (1978). Plastic Surgery in the Twentieth Century. Ann Plastic
Surg., Mar.
1(2): 217.
