Have you ever wondered if plastic surgery could be right for you, but have been discouraged by what other people say about it? You’re not alone. There are many common misconceptions around plastic surgery thanks to outdated media portrayals, a lack of patient education, and internet misinformation.
In today’s post, we’ll take a look at a few of them. Although common myths claim otherwise, today’s plastic surgery is safer, more diverse, and more personalized than ever before.
Myth: Breast Implants Aren’t Safe.
One of the most persistent plastic surgery myths is that breast implants are unsafe or even dangerous. In reality, breast implants have been extensively studied over the years and have been highly regulated to ensure they are used in safe and effective procedures.
Where the Myth Comes From
In 1992, the FDA temporarily prohibited the use of silicone implants because there was a lack of long-term safety data. Although silicone implants were re-approved by the FDA in 2006, there is a lasting impact on the public perception of breast implants today. Following rigorous clinical trials and extensive studies, there has been no link found between implants and systemic diseases.
The Truth: Breast Implants Are Safe When Properly Managed
Both saline and silicone breast implants undergo rigorous testing and oversight by the FDA today. Manufacturers are required to monitor patients for years after surgery to ensure there are no complications or defects with their implants. Between FDA testing, manufacturing oversight, and improved surgical techniques, the risk of complications is low and continues to decrease as improvements are made across all aspects of breast implants.
Myth: Liposuction Means Easy Weight Loss.
Many people mistakenly believe that liposuction is a quick fix for weight loss. Dramatic before-and-after photos on social media lead people to assume liposuction is a shortcut to a slimmer body. However, liposuction is intended to reshape and refine specific areas of the body, not help you lose weight.
The Misconception
Liposuction is commonly misconstrued as a weight loss solution due to how it is often marketed as a way to “suction off fat” and dramatically change your body size. Although liposuction does remove fat, it is not an alternative for healthy weight loss through exercise and diet. Liposuction is intended to be used for stubborn, localized fat deposits for people who have already gotten close to their ideal weight.
The Truth: Liposuction is for Body Contouring
Liposuction works by removing subcutaneous fat in targeted areas like the abdomen, arms, chin, hips, or thighs. It can:
- Improve how your clothes fit
- Smooth, sculpt, and contour the body
- Restore proportion in areas affected by age, hormonal changes, or genetics
Liposuction will not significantly lower your weight, as it cannot replace exercise or long-term lifestyle changes. Most patients only lose a few pounds after liposuction and see more aesthetic changes than medical benefits.
Myth: Plastic Surgery is Just for Women.
Plastic surgery is often associated with female patients due to societal stereotypes and media portrayals. However, more men than ever are turning to cosmetic and reconstructive surgery to enhance their appearance, address functional concerns, and restore confidence.
The Stereotype
Long-held cultural norms have played a significant role in this myth. Content and marketing around self-care, beauty, and body image are commonly directed towards women, while men have been discouraged from showing concern about their appearance out of fear of seeming vain or less masculine.
The Truth: Men Want to Look and Feel Their Best Too
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), over 1.3 million cosmetic procedures are performed on men annually, and that number is expected to keep growing. At the Lett Center, we regularly see male patients seeking both surgical and non-surgical enhancements for a wide range of reasons, such as:
- Post-weight loss body contouring
- Career competitiveness
- Dating confidence
- Self-esteem
Plastic surgery is about personal empowerment, and everyone deserves to feel comfortable and confident in their skin, regardless of gender. The idea that cosmetic procedures are “just for women” limits important conversations around self-care and self-image.
Plastic Surgery at The Lett Center
Plastic surgery has come a long way, and it’s important to keep conversations and perceptions about it up to date, too. Don’t let common myths about plastic surgery deter you from getting the look you desire. Contact The Lett Center today to schedule a consultation. Whether you’re interested in breast enhancement, body contouring, facial rejuvenation, or simply want to ask questions, we’re here to listen, guide, and support you every step of the way.