Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Sourcebook

Basic Consumer Information about Plastic Surgery and Non-Surgical Appearance-Enhancing Procedures, Including Facts about Botulinum Toxin, Collagen Replacement, Dermabrasion, Chemical Peels, Eyelid Surgery, Nose Reshaping, Lip Augmentation, Liposuction, Breast Enlargement and Reduction, Tummy Tucking, and Other Skin, Hair, Facial, and Body Shaping Procedures

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 10.2 million cosmetic surgery procedures were performed in 2005, up 11% from the previous year. An additional 5.4 million procedures were performed for reconstructive reasons, including breast reconstruction and burn care. Despite the prevalence of procedures focused on enhancing appearance and diminishing the cosmetic effects of aging, it is often difficult for people to understand what to expect from surgical procedures or to assess the accuracy of claims made about products.

To help medical consumers better discuss these matters with their health care providers, Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery Sourcebook, Second Edition provides updated information about both surgical and minimally-invasive procedures used to enhance appearance. These include botulinum toxin (Botox™), skin resurfacing, and facial and body contouring procedures such as liposuction, nose reshaping, breast enlargement and reduction, eyelid surgery, and tummy tucking. It also reports on reconstructive procedures used to correct congenital anomalies, disfiguring results of disease processes, and traumatic injuries. An end section offers a glossary of related terms and a directory of resources for additional help and information.