Individuals who are researching cosmetic surgery clinics or seeking a plastic surgeon do so for one reason - they want to change an aspect of their physical appearance. Plastic surgery can reduce the appearance of scars, reconstruct breasts or enhance features. Procedures such as rhinoplasty or breast augmentation have become common and many individuals seek these options as a way to enhance their lives. Plastic surgery can do these things, but the results may not always be what people expected.
Cosmetic surgery clinics commonly use a technology called digital imaging or plastic surgery computer imaging. This technology allows a surgeon to manipulate a photo of the patient using techniques such as digital photography, scanning, composition and manipulation of graphics. The images that are created through this manipulation are a guide for both the patient and surgeon as to the desired outcome of the procedure. There are a number of factors that individuals should consider after seeing the images provided by their surgeon.
1. Digital imaging or computer imaging requires the software user to have considerable skill in a variety of manipulation areas. The software is not an automated process and the image created by the surgeon will not necessarily take into consideration the individualized muscle, nerve and bone structure of the patient. In easier terms, the results in the picture may not be obtainable based on your body structure.
2. Every patient is different. Some individuals may take a longer time to heal; others may experience an increased level of scarring or have a higher incidence of infection. Skin can stretch, swell or shift for an extended period of time after surgery. The final results of any cosmetic procedure may take quite some time to be fully revealed. All of these factors will affect the final outcome of any cosmetic procedure.
3. Digital imaging does not provide an accurate prediction for all cosmetic procedure types. These images have been proven to be useful for liposuction, breast augmentation, facial resurfacing, nose surgery or tummy tuck procedures. If your procedure is not listed above, fully research the success of the software on your particular procedure.
4. The result of your cosmetic procedure will ultimately be based on the skill of your plastic surgeon. Meet with prospective surgeons, discuss the surgery process in as much detail as possible, ask about the best and worst case scenarios for recovery. Ask the surgeon for pictures of previous clients. These client portfolios should include a photo of the individual before surgery, the digital image used as a surgery guide and a photo of the individual after healing is completed. Evaluate the success of the surgeon in recreating the desired outcome.
If you choose to undergo any cosmetic procedure be aware that the digital image created by your surgeon does not guarantee an actual surgical outcome. This image is a three dimensional image used to provide insight into your expected outcome. Use the image to open a conversation between you and your surgeon based on your expectations.
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