In the 80’s and 90’s the popular approach to cosmetic facial surgery was the “operated look.” This was partly due to a boom in plastic surgery amongst the Hollywood community with stars premiering multiple extravagant procedures and influencing the way plastic surgery was being performed. Those seeking a change in their appearance expected highly noticeable results giving rise to the era of exaggerated, unnatural surgical effects.
Currently, most patients no longer seek the Hollywood operated look; on the contrary, they want a natural result from their plastic surgery. The shift among plastic surgeons has been to offer their patients subtle improvements which do not draw undesired attention. Facial plastic surgery in the 21st century follows the principle that “less in more.”
Natural results with safe procedures
Long-lasting results can be achieved through procedures that offer a subtle difference in appearance without letting everyone know that you’ve had plastic surgery. If a natural improvement is what you are after, it is important to clearly express your expectations regarding surgical outcomes during your pre-operative consultation. Keep in mind that a more conservative approach may also prevent unwanted complications and assures a safer outcome. In addition, less invasive procedures can be more beneficial than aggressive interventions if the physician follows current surgical guidelines.
On the other hand, aggressive techniques often leave little room for correction and can permanently damage the tissues of the face. At the same time, an aggressive approach rarely leads to a natural result. A good example of this is aggressive skin removal during upper eyelid blepharoplasty. It is better to be cautious and remove less skin than to remove too much and need a skin graft later. Aggressive skin removal will inevitably result in an exaggerated, unnatural appearance.
Resist the temptation to get your “money’s worth”
A common refrain among some patients is a desire to get their “money’s worth” from their surgery. This implies that the patient expects a highly noticeable outcome, one that people will surely observe. Nevertheless, you should resist the temptation to opt for an all-or-nothing approach, always keeping in mind that when it comes to facial plastic surgery, less is more.
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