Plastic surgery isn’t just about looks—it’s real surgery. Yet many people still rush into it without weighing the risks, motivations, or long-term consequences. As Dr. Nelson Augusto Letízio, a certified member of the Brazilian Society of Plastic Surgery, puts it: “Plastic surgery isn’t the villain. The real problems come from poor decisions and lack of care.”
People often project their frustrations and insecurities onto cosmetic procedures, hoping a new face or body will bring happiness. But the truth is, the decision to undergo surgery should go far beyond aesthetics. It’s not just a physical shift; it’s an emotional one too. You’re changing a part of yourself you’ve lived with for years—and that takes thought.
1. Should You Really Have Surgery?
There’s no universal “yes” or “no.” What matters is honest reflection and full trust in a qualified surgeon. According to Dr. Letízio, many patients hear a firm “no” in his office because their desired procedure is unnecessary or inappropriate. “Some come wanting one thing, but they actually need something else,” he says.
He recalls a woman seeking breast implants. “Her abdomen had significant localized fat. She already had large breasts, so I advised liposuction instead. If she had gone ahead with implants, the effect would’ve made her look heavier.” The takeaway? A surgeon’s guidance matters more than trends or personal whim.
2. How to Choose the Right Professional
Credentials come first. Always verify your surgeon’s qualifications, reputation, and experience. The facility—whether a hospital or clinic—must also meet professional standards. And beware of “too good to be true” pricing. Cheap deals often mean shortcuts in safety or care. The same caution applies to celebrity doctors charging premium fees—media fame isn’t proof of competence.
A responsible surgeon will clearly explain all risks and limitations, both verbally and in writing, through an informed consent form. If they rush or gloss over details, walk away.
3. Preexisting Health Conditions Raise the Stakes
Chronic illnesses—like diabetes or heart disease—don’t automatically rule out surgery, but they do demand extra precautions. Patients with hereditary or long-term conditions must obtain clearance from a specialist before proceeding. “These patients can undergo surgery safely, but with additional monitoring and care,” notes Dr. Letízio. Full honesty is critical: hiding information about your health can be dangerous.
4. Will You Actually Look Better?
The most honest answer? Maybe. It depends on your expectations and self-image. Surgery can refine a feature, but it can’t fix how you see yourself. “If someone wants to look like a celebrity or fit an unrealistic beauty ideal, the outcome can be disastrous,” warns Dr. Letízio.
He emphasizes that plastic surgery should harmonize with your body type, not fight it. And even then, confidence doesn’t always follow perfection. Feeling attractive is as much psychological as it is physical. “Plastic surgery doesn’t promise beauty or perfection—it’s simply an adjustment to reduce dissatisfaction,” he explains.
5. Is There a Right Age for It?
For teenagers, the answer is generally “not yet.” Until about 16 or 18, the body—and the mind—are still developing. “For instance, breast development only completes around those ages,” notes Letízio. Premature surgery risks both physical imbalance and emotional regret.
In contrast, there’s no upper age limit for adults. “I recently performed a facelift on an 86-year-old woman,” he shares. “Age isn’t the issue. What matters is overall health.” A medical evaluation, not the calendar, determines suitability.
6. Yes, There Will Be Scars
“Every deep cut leaves a mark,” says the surgeon. Expect scars—though often small and discreet. Proper care and skilled technique help minimize visibility, but those prone to keloids must take extra precautions. Always discuss scar-prevention strategies with your doctor before surgery.
7. The Reality of Recovery
Modern technology has made procedures safer and less invasive, but there’s no such thing as a risk-free operation. Pain, swelling, and emotional strain are part of the process. Plastic surgeon Ruben Penteado warns: “Even in silicone implant surgeries, complications like inflammation, infection, or rejection can occur. And pain is inevitable, even if temporary. Surgery is stressful—it’s nothing like a beauty salon visit.”
Recovery also demands discipline: wearing compression garments, following dietary restrictions, and attending follow-up appointments. These details directly impact the final result. Those who treat recovery lightly often end up dissatisfied, not because of the surgeon, but because they ignored the process.
Facing the Mirror Honestly
Plastic surgery can transform how you look—but it should never be a shortcut to feeling whole. The healthiest decisions start from self-acceptance, not self-denial. Surgery should refine, not redefine, who you are. A qualified doctor, realistic expectations, and a mature emotional outlook make all the difference between empowerment and disappointment.
