Kyla Manuel - Plastic Surgery

 Humans are imperfect creatures. Many people at one point in their life have considered plastic surgery to fix their insecurities. What comes to mind when you think of plastic surgery? Perhaps the Kardashians? Plastic surgery, often misunderstood, is a specialized medical field encompassing far more than aesthetic or vain enhancements. The term plastic in “plastic surgery” originates from the Greek word plastikos which means to sculpt. Its significance lies in its profound ability to restore form and function, significantly improving the quality of life for countless individuals. This discipline is broadly categorized into two primary branches: reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgery ≠ Cosmetic Surgery.

The foundational and arguably most crucial aspect of plastic surgery is its reconstructive dimension. This branch focuses on repairing and rebuilding body parts affected by birth defects, trauma, disease, or medical treatments. Its importance cannot be overstated.Reconstructive surgery plays a vital role in correcting conditions present at birth, such as cleft lip and palate. These procedures not only improve appearance but are critical for restoring essential functions like feeding, speech, and hearing, enabling children to develop normally. For individuals who have undergone cancer treatment, particularly those involving surgical removal of tissue (e.g., mastectomy for breast cancer), reconstructive surgery offers crucial options. Breast reconstruction, for instance, can significantly aid in a patient's psychological recovery and body image following a traumatic experience. Similarly, reconstruction after tumor removal from the head, neck, or limbs helps restore vital structures and functions.Beyond mere survival, reconstructive surgery is about enhancing the functional capacity and overall well-being of patients. By restoring a limb’s movement, a face’s symmetry, or an organ’s function, these procedures empower individuals to lead fuller, more integrated lives.


Despite plastic surgery playing an important role in reconstruction, we can’t ignore that 90% of plastic surgery procedures are done for cosmetic purposes. 

There’s no denying that social media has played a part in the increase of people undergoing plastic surgery.  According to a study from The National institute of Health, people with low self esteem and higher media consumption were more likely to undergo plastic surgery. While reconstructive surgery focuses on necessity, cosmetic surgery is primarily concerned with enhancing appearance. This branch addresses aesthetic concerns and can also contribute to an individual's psychological well-being. While often viewed as purely elective, its importance, when approached responsibly, can be significant.For some, cosmetic procedures can correct perceived physical imperfections that cause significant self-consciousness or distress. This might involve refining features, improving skin texture, or sculpting body contours.Boosting Self-Confidence: When performed on suitable candidates with realistic expectations, cosmetic surgery can lead to increased self-esteem and a more positive body image, which in turn can positively impact social interactions and overall life satisfaction.

Plastic surgery is an essential specialty in medicine. Its importance extends beyond superficial alterations, deeply impacting lives through the restoration of function, correction of deformities, and the meticulous enhancement of appearance. For young adults navigating self-image and health concerns, understanding plastic surgery's true breadth – particularly its life-changing reconstructive capabilities – is crucial for an informed perspective on this vital field. It’s time to erase the stigma. 

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