Ways plastic surgery improves the quality of life

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When plastic surgery is mentioned, people often conjure images of Hollywood celebrities who, in an effort to keep aging at a standstill, become unrecognizable. There is, however, a much more positive side to facial and body reconstruction. It has been proven countless times that people who have suffered traumatic facial or body injuries now enjoy a better life because of plastic surgery. Here’s why.

Usually, people with burn injuries have plastic or reconstructive surgery done to the affected areas. Patients, especially those with extensive skin damage experience suffer not only physical but psychological damage as well. When their appearance has been drastically altered, burn victims turn to isolation, not wanting the rest of the world to see the deformities caused by the injuries. And the feeling of isolation is not only seen in burn victims. People who figure in horrific vehicular accidents suffer the same psychological trauma due to disfigurement. For many burn and car crash victims, undergoing plastic surgery brings back some sense of normalcy, allowing them to look in the mirror and see the people they once were.

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Studies have also revealed that overweight and obese people who go through body-contouring procedures such as abdominoplasty and breast reduction exhibited significant improvements in their quality of life. They can perform daily tasks better. They feel more accepted socially. They report improved sexual relationships. They are more comfortable with themselves. Overall, they are psychologically healthier.

Dr. Robert R. Beltran is an Irvine-based specialist in otolaryngology and plastic surgery within the head and neck. For more articles on otolaryngology and plastic surgery, subscribe to this site.