Aesthetic Medicine or Plastic Surgery?

Non-Invasive vs. Invasive Procedures

Aesthetic Medicine relies mostly on non-invasive or minimally invasive procedures. These are treatments that require little to no recovery time and have reduced risks compared to surgical procedures. Popularly performed staples include:

• Injectables
• Laser treatments
• Chemical Peels
• Microneedling
• Body Sculpting and contouring technologies

In comparison Plastic Surgery encompasses a list of considerably more invasive procedures. These generally require incisions which then makes general anaesthesia a necessity. The anaesthesia itself expands the risk profile of the surgery. These surgeries do necessitate downtime following and in certain cases an extended recovery period. Well-known plastic surgeries include breast augmentations, liposuction, facelifts, tummy tucks and the like.

What is Correct for You?

A thorough review of the advantages and limitations of both Aesthetic Medicine and of Plastic Surgery may inform your decision-making. Ultimately, it is one of safety and suitability.

Five Elements to Consider when Choosing between Aesthetic Medicine or Surgery

Budget and Cost:

There are some cost advantages to Aesthetic Medicine. The fact that Aesthetic Medicine procedures do not require theatre access, specialized anaesthesia, and a surgeon mean that they are naturally a cost-effective alternative to plastic surgery. Add to this, no required downtime and the savings compile more.

*Take action today and book two treatment packages at SAI to receive 40% of the one of lesser value. Click here for the August 2023 Special.

Results and Longevity:

Both Aesthetic Medicine and Plastic Surgery are able to offer Clients excellent results. In fact, the leaps in technique and technology allow for considerably improved results from Aesthetic Medicine than in previous decades. However, it absolutely must be highlighted that the skills, experience, and training of the Doctor’s hands that you choose to trust will significantly impact the quality of your aesthetic outcomes as well as your experience of the process.

It is of vital import to choose properly qualified, established, and reputable professionals who are well practised with the procedures you are undergoing. To settle for less will jeopardize your health, safety, and results.

One area of marked difference between the two fields is the expected longevity of final results. Surgery results are more permanent. Surgeries such as a facelift, breast augmentation, or liposuction offer results that last up to ten years or more. Aesthetic Medicine’s signature non-invasive treatments can’t claim the same. In fact; they will require upkeep. This is a potential disadvantage to those who just want to ‘be done with it’; but for those unsure of permanent affects it is a big bonus.

Risk and Recovery:

Another recognized benefit of Aesthetic Medicine procedures is their shorter recovery times when compared to surgery of any type. Surgery has the risk of infection and pronounced surgical scars. Surgery may require wound care that demands rigorous attention to prevent infections and potential scarring risk they carry. Non-invasive treatments generally carry little to no downtime allowing them to be placed in the schedule with confidence; knowing what to expect and without necessitating a break from daily activities. This can be a must for those with demanding work commitments or dependent families as it negates the social and financial cost associated with recovery.

Suitability and Medical History:

Distinct aesthetic realities may carry a weighted preference to be addressed by either Aesthetic medicine or surgery. For instance; breast augmentation is not possible within the array of Aesthetic Medicine treatments while skin resurfacing is not a targeted outcome of a surgical facelift. Minor facial wrinkles or volume loss may be treated effectively without undergoing surgery while more serious laxity and skin sagging may not.

Treatment suitability is determined by the severity or qualities of the issue being addressed. It must also take into account the current health, health history, and expectations of the individual. There will be times during which certain treatments are not appropriate. An informed, honest, and straightforward medical Doctor will be able to listen, ask and answer questions, and present you with suitable options that you can choose from.

Combination treatments:

Combination treatments are an excellent asset presented by Aesthetic Medicine. Results can be amplified without an increase in risk. Surgeries are rarely combined and when they are feasible the costs, risks, and recovery time all rise accordingly. For those wanting to experience a leap forward toward reaching their aesthetic goals; combination treatments allow for focused approach. Discover what combinations pair well together in this article on Combination Inspiration.

Your Next Step

Ultimately, the decision between Aesthetic Medicine and Plastic Surgery should be made after a thorough consultation with a qualified and experienced Doctor.

Before you choose; ensure your questions are answered. Read reviews of the procedures you are pursuing and educate yourself on how to aid and enhance your results.

Dr Clark at Sandton Aesthetic Institute is an established Aesthetic Medicine Doctor with a proven track record of achieving results. His state-of-the-art clinic includes proven technologies and a team poised to deliver a pleasant and personalized experience. Dr Clark will always communicate whether your Aesthetic Goals can be achieved via non-surgical means or whether Cosmetic Surgery is the more suitable route.

Contact SAI 011 883 3116 / 060 718 2178.

The August 2023 Special: Buy any two Packages and receive 40% discount on the lesser of the two. Simply click here.

What’s New: Combination Inspiration – which treatments work well together.

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