No, this is not about Christian Troy on the show “Nip/Tuck”.  Recently, there was an article published in a respected peer reviewed publication, the Aesthetic Surgery Journal¹ that reported the results of a study focusing on the effects of cosmetic surgery on intimacy and sexual relationships. I have always known that the basic reason my patients undergo plastic surgery is to improve a certain part of their body and feel better about themselves. This article goes on to say that this newfound sense of well-being can lead to a higher level of comfort in intimate settings and greater satisfaction in sexual relationships. The results are interesting to read and have available in your memory bank for your next cocktail party. According to the report, more than 95% of respondents reported improvement in their body image. The patients who underwent breast and body contouring surgery declared improvement in sexual satisfaction, and made changes toward a decidedly more provocative style in clothing.  To top it off, 70% of that group testified that their partner’s sex life had been enhanced – particularly if the surgery was on the breasts, abdomen and thighs. The study concluded that cosmetic surgery patients overwhelmingly feel better about their body after surgery. It is clear that the effect of cosmetic surgery extends well beyond the arena of just physical changes—and reaches into the bedroom.

Learn more about Plastic surgery and breast implants in Chicago.

¹Guy M. Stofman, et al, “Better Sex From the Knife? An Intimate Look at the Effects of Cosmetic Surgery on Sexual Practices,” Aesthetic Surgery Journal Vol 26:1 (2006): 12.

1. Do your homework: Research the procedure, the benefits and the risks. Refer to www.plasticsurgery.org for the latest information on plastic surgery procedures.

2. Have Realistic Expectations: Ask your plastic surgeon about the benefits and risks of your surgery; discuss your expectations and understand side effects and recovery time.

3. Be Informed: Talk to patients who have had your procedure so you know what to expect.

4. Ask Tough Questions: Consult your plastic surgeon and discuss your full medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment.

5. Choose an ASPS Member Surgeon: Why? ASPS Member Surgeons are qualified, trained and properly certified. They adhere to a strict code of ethics, receive continuous education and operate only in accredited facilities. An ASPS Member Surgeon is your partner in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery.

The operating room is very organized in its function and everyone has a specific duty. The whole team is responsible for your care. Typically there are five people in the room at any one time. The Chicago Plastic surgeon, anesthesiologist, scrub nurse/technician, and circulating nurse. The scrub nurse/technician is the individual who helps with instruments, assists the surgeon during the surgery, and is “scrubbed in” so he or she can not move around the room. The circulating nurse is not “scrubbed in” and can move around the room to help with other tasks throughout the surgery. You may ask who is the fifth person? The most important person in the room is the fifth person – the patient. So while you are asleep, many people work to ensure your safety and comfort.