According to plastic surgeon Dr. Arthur Perry, media coverage and television shows about cosmetic surgery have given many people the idea that all procedures are safe, simple and effective—something he says is not always the case. "The public is getting information that is really skewed—it's not accurate," he says. "They've turned cosmetic surgery into entertainment, and it's not—it's a deadly, serious field."
Dr. Oz talks with Dr. Perry, author of Straight Talk About Cosmetic Surgery, about some of the potential risks, as well as the benefits of various types of cosmetic surgeries. Dr. Perry says finding a reputable, highly-skilled doctor is critical for those considering cosmetic surgery, as well as getting a second opinion. He says taking these precautionary measures can help ensure that the patient, doctor and procedure are a good fit.
Dr. Perry also shares with Dr. Oz his insights on the following cosmetic surgery procedures:
Breast implants can have serious complications. Dr. Perry says that the bigger the implant, the bigger the problems in the future. Also, he says he does not recommend breast implants for girls under 18 because they are neither physically nor emotionally mature enough for the procedure.
Eyelid lifts can be highly effective procedures. Dr. Perry says. "It can really restore one's appearance—the eyelids age before the rest of the face and that's a great procedure," he says.
Brow lifts have to be done very carefully, Dr. Perry says. "Brow-lifting is one that I question because so many brows are lifted in a very bizarre way," he says.
Facelifts can be great procedures, with approximately three dozen different types of the procedure being done today, Dr. Perry says. "What you have to do is trust the surgeon who's doing it and their technique," he says.
Liposuction of the neck and jowls can make a person look significantly better, Dr. Perry says, but a patient should still make lifestyle changes to drop excessive weight elsewhere on their body for better health.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most variable and difficult procedures, with a 15 percent redo rate, Dr. Perry says. However, he says it can have a dramatic impact on someone's self confidence and help them become more outgoing.
Tummy tucks can improve muscular function and posture as well as appearance by tightening the abdominal muscles, Dr. Perry says. However, they are the highest-risk cosmetic surgical procedure. There is a 5 percent major complication rate, resulting from bleeding after surgery or blood clots in the legs, he says.
Printed from Oprah.com on Wednesday, June 19, 2013
