How Much Does Plastic Surgery Hurt? Here’s The Answer!
Plastic surgery has skyrocketed in popularity over the years, especially in the entertainment industry where youth and beauty have a direct impact on earning potential. The media’s obsession with perfect-looking celebrities invariably influences society’s standards of beauty, sending increasing numbers of young girls, women and even men under the knife to correct perceived flaws and/or defy the effects of aging. What we usually don’t hear is that perfection comes at a price, and not just in dollars.
Like any other surgery, there is some level of pain and uncomfortable physical feeling associated with plastic surgery. Depending on the work done, you may experience some level of pain for days, weeks, and possibly months. With facial surgery, for example, you’ll likely see redness, swelling and bruising immediately following surgery and for days afterwards. Simple activities like turning your head, laughing or eating can trigger pain.
The feeling is not surprising considering the nature of the operations. In most cases, your skin is split open, pulled and yanked every which way, then stitched back up. Some underlying fat is removed and muscles are often tightened to conform to the new contours of the treated area.
During rhinoplasty, the bridge of the patient’s nose bone may undergo hammering, and shaving while being reconstructed into the desired shape. Breast augmentation involves the insertion of a foreign object into one of the more sensitive areas of the body. Liposuction involves the maneuvering of a tube-like instrument known as a cannula to vacuum out excess body fat.
Ironically, while these very descriptions sound painful, no pain is actually felt during the surgery. Thanks to anesthesia, the patient is blissfully numb and unaware. This is a positive attribute of surgery, considering the concentration and precision required of plastic surgeons.
Post-surgery, the patient may be puffy and sore from the first few hours and into the next few days. Redness and swelling may dissipate after that, but there will likely be tightness and stingy sensations until the incisions fully heal. Certain activities may exacerbate the pain. A patient will probably require prescription based pain management for a week or two. Although recovery times vary, pain usually disappears after four to six weeks.
Although plastic surgery is painful, the end result is rewarding. Whether it’s rhinoplasty, or erasing a few wrinkles, a person will likely feel better about their physical appearance. As long as there are no unrealistic expectations, the patient’s emotional health will likely improve as well. It’s like having dental work. You might dread the actual procedure, but your new beautiful smile is worth the week-long diet of baby food, antibiotics and pain pills.
Keep in mind there are risks with any surgery. Talk to a qualified doctor before making a final decision.