Cosmetic surgery: What you should know before treatment
How can people recognize a good cosmetic surgeon?
Dr. Brölsch: Patients should be very careful when choosing a doctor. Unfortunately, the term "cosmetic surgery" is still not legally protected. This means that basically anyone can call themselves that. And indeed, doctors without specialist knowledge or even non-medical professionals offer treatments. A quality indicator for a doctor is, firstly, the specialist title in plastic and aesthetic surgery, and secondly, their experience and further qualifications. How often has the specialist Surgery and therapies? Where did they receive their initial training and where did they pursue further education? How else do they demonstrate their expertise? Membership in medical societies such as the German Society of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons (DGPRÄC), the German Society of Surgery (DGCH), or the International Society of Plastic Surgery (ISAPS) is also an indicator of trustworthiness.
And what else should patients pay attention to?
Dr. Brölsch: “Reputable doctors invite prospective patients to their practice for a personal consultation. It’s important not only to see the patients but also to understand their motivation for wanting a cosmetic procedure. The consultation includes an examination of the relevant areas of the body to be treated. At Löwen Ästhetik , it’s important to us that we give women and men an assessment of what medical and aesthetic results are realistic. This is part of our professional identity and responsibility as specialists. We don’t believe in making false promises.”
What role does the medical aspect play in cosmetic surgery?
Dr. Brölsch: “Whether it’s wrinkle injections or breast augmentation , whether outpatient treatment or surgery: it’s always an intervention in the body. Although the risks and side effects are very low in most cases, it’s important that the practitioner possesses extensive medical expertise, including a medical assistant training. This also helps to avoid potential treatment errors and undesirable results. Furthermore, plastic and aesthetic surgery isn’t always just about Cosmetic Procedures . The field also encompasses numerous medical conditions that we treat, such as pathological fat distribution (lipedema) or medical problems in the genital area after multiple births. Knowledge within plastic and aesthetic surgery can also be helpful in migraine therapy.”
What trends are you currently observing in beauty treatments?
Dr. Brölsch: “According to the German Society for Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery (DGPRÄC) and the Association of German Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (VDÄPC), breast augmentation the most frequently requested procedure. We are also seeing this trend here in Braunschweig. Many women desire natural, firm, and beautiful breasts for various reasons. At the same time, the demand for Autologous Fat Transfer , an alternative to breast implants, is increasing. Incidentally, breast isn't just a concern for women. More and more men are also seeking consultations. They desire a more masculine, firmer chest. Furthermore, liposuction and eyelid lifts are popular procedures – for both women and men. We are also observing an increase in demand for minimally invasive procedures. These include, for example, injections with Botox® or hyaluronic acid to reduce wrinkles.”
