The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports nearly 11.7 cosmetic procedures were performed in 2007. From lipoplasty to eyelid surgery, it’s clear that both surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic surgery procedures are a growing trend for men and women alike. In fact, the ASPS estimates a 457 percent increase since 1997, with women accounting for just over 90 percent of all procedures.   

While the trend continues to grow across the country, many people forego the planning and research required to ensure a safe procedure.  Reality TV ‘extreme makeovers’ and clever marketing tactics may lure you into thinking cosmetic surgery is a glamorous treatment, but cosmetic surgeons encourage patients to be realistic about their expectations and goals and learn as much about the procedure as possible before signing up.  Here are just five common cosmetic surgery myths you may have fallen for:  

1. Your cosmetic surgeon is certified. While some cosmetic and plastic surgeons do pass the exams from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, not all of them receive certification. A cosmetic surgeon can be certified by the state, but is not required to carry board certification.  Learning about the credentials of your doctor may be as simple as visiting their folio page or contacting them directly to learn more.

2. Plastic surgeons can perform BOTOX and other cosmetic procedures. Understanding the difference between plastic surgery and cosmetic surgery can help debunk this myth with ease; cosmetic surgery, also known as aesthetic plastic surgery, is comprised of treatments such as dermal filler injections, laser skin resurfacing and other skin management treatments. A cosmetic surgeon will be trained in only these procedures, while a plastic surgeon specializes in reconstructive surgery (e.g. restructuring muscles after an accident). If you’re looking for the most skilled professional for BOTOX and other cosmetic procedures, a cosmetic surgeon is your best option.

3. Liposuction gets rid of cellulite. Liposuction is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure, but does not necessarily get reduce the appearance of cellulite. Even though fat is extracted from the body during liposuction, the fatty tissue trapped right under the skin may remain. Massage therapy, detoxifying body wraps and treatments such as LipoDissolve may be a better approach for reducing the appearance of cellulite.

4. BOTOX will freeze your facial muscles permanently. BOTOX injections are the most popular non-invasive cosmetic procedures available, accounting for over 2.7 million nonsurgical procedures in 2007. A qualified surgeon will only inject small amounts of BOTOX at a time to ensure that muscles cannot be ‘frozen’. Finding a skilled professional to administer the BOTOX injections is an essential part of your research process.

5. Laser skin resurfacing treatments are only for wrinkle removal. Laser skin resurfacing treatments offer several benefits for aging skin, but can also be used to remove acne scars, tighten up loose skin, and get rid of age spots. Laser skin resurfacing technologies such as the Fraxel C02 laser can also help boost collagen production – this makes the skin more resilient and youthful looking, and the treatment can be paired with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as dermal fillers and microdermabrasion if needed.  

You have several options for facial enhancement, skin rejuvenation and even fat removal with the latest cosmetic surgery procedures. Debunking common myths of cosmetic surgery can help you make the right decision for your skin – and well-being - but researching your procedure and consulting with a qualified cosmetic surgeon are part of the process. 

Learn more about cosmetic surgery procedures in our information guide, or contact a doctor in your area to find out which treatment is best for you.