FACE & NECK
Separate contour, eyelid and skin concerns. Similar-looking goals can involve different anatomy and procedures.
Rhinoplasty is surgery that changes the shape or proportions of the nose. It may also address breathing problems linked to the nasal structure. The right plan depends on both appearance and function; a smaller nose is not automatically a better result.
A facelift is surgery intended to improve visible aging changes in the face and neck. It can address sagging tissues and contour changes. It does not stop aging, and it is not the same treatment as skin resurfacing or every other facial procedure.
Blepharoplasty is eyelid surgery that can address excess skin, puffiness or other contour concerns. Upper and lower eyelid operations address different areas. Some eyelid problems affect function as well as appearance, so an assessment should consider both.
BREAST
Volume and position are different decisions. Learn what augmentation and a lift each aim to change.
Breast augmentation increases breast volume using implants or fat transfer. It can address volume loss or differences in breast size. It does not reliably correct substantial sagging; a breast lift may be a separate part of the discussion.
A breast lift, or mastopexy, removes excess skin and reshapes supporting tissue to raise the breast contour. A lift primarily addresses position and shape. It does not usually add significant volume; augmentation may be a separate option.
BODY
Distinguish localized fat, excess skin and the abdominal wall before comparing procedures.
A tummy tuck removes excess abdominal skin and fat and can address weakened abdominal muscles. It is a body-contouring operation, not a replacement for weight management. The tradeoff includes a scar and a recovery period.
Liposuction removes localized fat to change body contours. It is not a substitute for weight management and does not remove excess skin in the way a skin-removal operation does. Skin quality and the area being treated affect the plan.
NON-SURGICAL
Injectables still require a qualified professional, an appropriate treatment plan and a risk discussion.
How to use these plastic surgery procedures guides
Choose the concern you want to understand, then read the overview, cost exclusions, recovery and risks together. These plastic surgery procedures guides are an educational starting point, not a diagnosis or a recommendation for an operation.
Our initial library covers the procedures linked above. For further procedure information, consult the ASPS cosmetic procedure directory. We expand coverage when a useful, sourced guide is ready.