Our Plastic Prisons (13 Pages)

Parker 1

Our Plastic Prisons

In the creation of our beings, we are blessed, and sometimes cursed with features we, as freethinkers, might not otherwise have chosen for ourselves. Certain circumstances however, may arise on the journey known as life, forcing us to reconstruct these features; in an effort to construct normal, healthy, lives. Often, we are compelled to reconstruct these features in an effort to enhance an otherwise normal, healthy life. For the individual unaware of the pros and cons, in to regards to the acquisition of cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery; I produce this composition in an attempt to inform you, the reader; as well as to expand upon my limited knowledge of this field.

In researching the world of "Plastic Surgery", we approach a dividing factor. There are two categories into which most operations are labeled. Cosmetic surgeries occur when an individual takes notice of a particular feature on his/her body and makes the decision to alter the imperfection. In humans, it is impossible to find a "flawless" being. Our bodies, in their own right, are not created equal. A certain degree of asymmetry exists within each of us. Symmetry is not a dominant trait in the human race. Take a picture of your face, photographing each side individually. Place each photo side by side. Notice the difference? Each feature, your eyes, your nose, and even your lips take on their own sense of symmetry, or asymmetry if you will. Reconstructive surgery takes place when an individual is blessed with features that hinder his/her ability to lead a normal, healthy, life.

Parker 2

Breast augmentation is one of the most frequently requested cosmetic surgeries. Implants are inserted behind the breast tissue of each breast or behind the "pectoralis" a major muscle, helping to increase the size of the breast. Silicone implants are made of thick material and filled with either saline or an antibiotic solution during the operation. Women are classically partial to this type of operation. However, in recent years, males have exhibited an interest in cosmetic operations pertaining to the enhancement of the male physique, thus leading to the procurement of "pectoral implants". Each sex concludes this course of action for similar reasons. Increased sex appeal, heightened sexual pleasure, as well as a new found sense of confidence, influence an individuals reservations regarding this operation. (Plasticsurgery.org)

Augmentation provides a considerable alternative to patients in an attempt to reconstruct a part of their person lost by circumstance. Evolved medical research along with recent technological advances have made it possible for surgeons to create a breast that compares in form and appearance to matching a natural breast. Often, breast reconstruction is possible immediately following breast removal, so the patient wakes up with a breast mound already in place allowing them to be spared the feeling and/or sight of having no breast at all. When implants are used, there is a remote possibility that an infection will develop, In some instances, the implant may need to be removed for several months until the infection clears. After extensive tests, a new implant(s) can later be inserted.

(Plasticsurgery.org)

Parker 3

The most common problem, capsular contracture, occurs if the scar or capsule around the implant begins to tighten. This causes the breast to feel hard. There are many operations used to treat capsular contracture, and can include either removal or "scoring" of the scar tissue, or even removal or replacement of the implant. Breast reconstruction has no known determining factor in the recurrence

of disease in the breast, and does not generally interfere with chemotherapy or radiation treatment, should cancer recur. Periodic mammograms on both the reconstructed and the remaining normal breast are recommended by most physicians. In an effort to preserve an individual's sense of dignity and restore confidence, every attempt is made to preserve his/her physical likeness.

For those patients not suffering from the absence of a breast but rather being blessed with breasts not proportionate to his/her height/weight measurements, another type of operation is performed. Breast reduction, technically known as reduction mammaplasty, is a form of reconstructive surgery classically performed on females. New found information has prompted an increase in the number of males requesting this type of operation each year. The procedure removes fat, glandular tissue, and skin from the breasts, making them smaller, lighter, and firmer. It can also reduce the size of the areola. The goal is to provide women with smaller, better-shaped breasts in proportion with the rest of her body. (Yourmakeovers.com)

Generally, breast reduction isn't performed until a woman's breasts are fully developed; however, it can be performed earlier if her breasts are causing serious physical discomfort. It is imperative that candidates have a lucid comprehension of the procedure he/she is requesting. Breast reduction is not recommended for women who intend to breast-feed. In most cases, the

Parker 4

nipples remain attached to their blood vessels and nerves. However, if the breasts are very large or pendulous, the nipples and areolas may be completely removed and grafted to a higher position on the chest area (This will result in a loss of sensation in the nipple and areolar tissue.)

Occasionally, when only fat needs to be removed, liposuction alone can be used to reduce breast size, reducing scars and recovery time. This procedure does leave noticeable, permanent scars, as well as the potential to experience a permanent loss of feeling in one's nipples or breasts. Women are encouraged to explore this option when considering the plethora of medical problems caused by the excessive weight, ranging from back and neck pain and skin irritation to skeletal deformities and breathing problems. In some cases, bra straps may even leave indentations in their shoulders. (Yourmakeovers.com)

Although there is no known cause for Gynecomastia, it is a condition that affects approximately 40 to 60 percent of males. Gynecomastia is the term used to describe the "women-like breasts" men are sometimes subject to grow. Certain drugs have been linked to male breast over-development, but no official evidence provides an explanation for the occurrence. Male breast reduction is often the safest alternative. In this procedure, skilled doctors remove

...