Facial Plastic Surgery is Age-Specific.
Facial plastic surgery is often perceived as tailored to specific age groups, but this notion overlooks the broader spectrum of suitability across different ages. While certain procedures may be more prevalent within particular age demographics, this doesn’t mean that an age limit for undergoing these procedures is automatically imposed.
Take Otoplasty (ear surgery), for instance; this procedure is commonly associated with young adults. Yet, a 2017 study details that “The age at which this operation (otoplasty) is performed showed the most variation”. On the contrary, facial surgeries like blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery), Rhytidectomy (face-lift), and Endoscopic (brow surgery) are often common among older demographics. However, their prevalence among older individuals doesn’t restrict them solely to that age bracket.
Ultimately, the decision to undergo plastic surgery hinges more on individual factors than age alone. Dr Scamp acknowledges this which is why he assesses each patient on an individual basis. We want to accentuate it’s crucial to assess each person on an individual basis and that the decision to have plastic performed should be for personal reasons rather than adhering to societal norms or trends.
Otoplasty improves hearing
Whilst it can be assumed that surgery on the ears would be in an effort to improve hearing an ototplasty (ear surgery) is conducted purely to address aesthetic concerns. Also referred to as ear pinning, otoplasty is designed to alter the shape, size, and/or position of an individual’s ears. This is done by the surgeon reshaping the tissue of the ears (cartilage) through small incisions behind the ears.
If it is suggested that an individual feels their hearing has improved following the surgery it is likely that this is due to psychosomatic factors. The surgery itself does not interfere with a patient’s auditory function. To ensure any individual considering otoplasty (ear surgery) has a realistic idea of the potential outcomes it should be assumed that improved hearing is not a viable outcome.
Blepharoplasty only addresses upper eyelids
Blepharoplasty, commonly known as eyelid surgery, primarily addresses aesthetic concerns regarding eyelid laxity. Despite the fact this is often associated with the upper eyelids, it’s a misconception that it’s exclusively performed in this area. Whilst Upper blepharoplasty targets excess fat and skin, it can also be performed on an individual’s lower eyelids. Lower blepharoplasty focuses on under-eye bags and puffiness. Additionally, it’s important to note that while this procedure can be aesthetic it also offers functional benefits. This can be true for individuals who are having their vision or eyelid movement hindered by excess skin. Understanding the broader scope of blepharoplasty dispels the misconception that it’s solely limited to the upper eyelids.
A Rhytidectomy will make you look like a different person
The aim of a Rhytidectomy (Facelift) is to remove excess skin and tissue from the face. Whilst this procedure can address concerns such as cheek descent, jowls and loose skin on the neck, what this procedure cannot do is make an individual look like a different person. This is due to how this procedure is performed. Which is through using incision techniques where the surgeon will work to remove any excess skin and fatty cheek deposits. The way in which this is done will be unique to the individual in order to align with the desires they expressed during their consultation. So while the aim of a Rhytidectomy (facelift) is to alter aspects of an individual’s appearance, it cannot alter an individual’s natural facial structure.
We hope that by addressing these myths that are often associated with plastic surgery around the facial area, patients can make informed decisions that contribute to their overall well-being and their ability to form realistic expectations regarding their chosen surgical procedure. For any questions regarding this topic please do not hesitate to contact us, as the best decisions are informed ones.