Plastic surgery involves a variety of procedures that enhance appearance or restore function after injury or illness. Understanding key terminology can help you make informed decisions and communicate effectively with your surgeon. Familiarizing yourself with these fundamental terms helps you know what to expect before, during, and after your procedure. Here are key terms you should know before getting aesthetic surgery:
Comprehensive Plastic Surgery Concept
Plastic surgery refers to procedures that reshape or restore parts of the body. The field includes cosmetic surgery, which improves appearance, and reconstructive surgery, which repairs damage from injuries or medical conditions. A board-certified plastic surgeon has completed extra training and passed exams to prove their skills. When choosing a surgeon, look for this credential to make sure you’re in good hands.
Medical and Surgical Terminology
Several medical terms come up during plastic surgery consultations. Here are some common terms and their meanings:
- Anesthesia: Medicine that prevents pain during surgery. Local anesthesia numbs one area, while general anesthesia puts you to sleep.
- Incision: A cut made during surgery. Surgeons place incisions carefully to minimize visible scarring.
- Sutures: Stitches used to close incisions. These may dissolve on their own or require removal later.
- Liposuction: A procedure that removes fat from specific areas of the body through a thin tube called a “cannula.” This is often part of body contouring, which reshapes your figure.
- Graft: The process of moving tissue from one part of your body to another.
- Implant: A device placed inside the body to add volume or provide structural support.
Understanding these terms helps you communicate effectively with your surgeon.
Recovery and Aftercare Terms
After surgery, you enter the recovery phase. “Post-operative care” includes all the steps you take to support proper healing. Following your surgeon’s instructions during this time is fundamental for good results.
“Swelling” and “bruising” are common after plastic surgery, and both fade over time. “Drains” are tubes placed near incisions to remove excess fluid during healing. Your surgeon will tell you when they can be removed.
A “compression garment” is tight clothing worn after surgery to reduce swelling and support healing tissues. “Scarring” occurs as incisions heal, but it usually fades over several months. Your surgeon may recommend treatments to help minimize their appearance.
Aesthetic and Outcome-related Terms
Several terms describe the results of plastic surgery. Here are some of them:
- Symmetry: The balance between the two sides of the body. Surgeons strive for symmetrical outcomes, but achieving perfect symmetry is not always possible.
- Contour: Denotes the shape and outline of the body. Procedures such as tummy tucks and breast augmentation aim to enhance contour by reshaping specific areas.
- Projection: Describes the extent to which an implant or tissue stands out from the chest wall, significantly influencing the final aesthetic appearance.
- Revision Surgery: Refers to surgical procedures performed to correct or improve the outcomes of a previous surgery. It may be chosen by patients who are dissatisfied with initial results or who are experiencing complications.
Understanding these terms helps facilitate clear communication with your surgeon and provides alignment in achieving your aesthetic goals.
Book Your Plastic Surgery Appointment Today
Learning these terms prepares you for a smooth plastic surgery experience. When you understand what your surgeon says, you can ask better questions and make informed choices. Take time to discuss any unfamiliar words with your surgeon during your consultation. Contact a certified plastic surgeon near you to schedule your appointment today.