Facing the Facts - What You Need to Know about Facial Plastic Surgery

Facing the Facts - What You Need to Know about Facial Plastic Surgery

NEW YORK, February 26 / PRNewswire — Our faces are our calling cards. They identify who we are, show our emotions and are connected with three out of the five senses that deliver outside information to our brains. But what happens when what you see in the mirror does not reflect your true identity?

If you have considered undergoing a facial plastic surgery procedure for cosmetic or medical reasons, you are not alone. In fact, 85 percent of American adults would undergo a cosmetic procedure if given the chance, says the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS). Furthermore, 80 percent of those surveyed said they would rather trust their faces to the surgical expertise of a facial plastic surgeon who specializes in cosmetic surgery of the head, face and neck than a general plastic surgeon.

Last year Americans underwent 2.3 million facial plastic surgery procedures and approximately 38,000 revision surgeries. Some procedures were purely cosmetic to enhance appearance or fight the signs of aging, while others were more medical, including surgeries to correct breathing problems.

Highly publicized tales of surgeries-gone-wrong - both invasive and non-invasive - have reinforced the importance of research to properly identify a highly experienced board-certified surgeon. With the vast number of surgeons in practice today, it is more important than ever to make informed decisions when considering an elective procedure such as cosmetic surgery.

Trust your face to a facial plastic surgeon
By doing your homework ahead of time, you can find a facial plastic surgeon whom you trust to maximize the benefits of your chosen treatments. A facial plastic surgeon will discuss your treatment options and make recommendations to correct any issues.

AAFPRS facial plastic surgeons are required to have training in their specialties. Many complete their four-year specialized residencies in the specialty of otolaryngology - head and neck surgery which includes facial plastic surgery. Many also acquire further clinical training or year-long fellowships in facial plastic surgery.

The AAFPRS is a leading source for researching surgeons and their expertise in your area, as well an educational resource for navigating through the many types of procedures that are performed. It is the world's largest association of facial plastic and reconstructive surgeons, with more than 2,700 members who concentrate on the face, head and neck.

Referrals from family and friends who have undergone cosmetic procedures can be a great place to start your research. Another option is to obtain a recommendation from a trusted physician or health-care professional. Once you find a surgeon, ask how many procedures the surgeon has performed, and if the surgeon operates in an accredited facility. The surgeon needs to be one to whom you would trust your face.

The AAFPRS Web site, www.facemd.org, offers information and brochures about different surgeries, and includes a listing of board certified facial plastic surgeons nationwide.


Press Contact:
Marjorie Wolfe
Behrman Communications
mwolfe@behrmanpr.com

212.986.7000