Spot the difference between cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatments

Many terms are interchangeable these days and cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery and cosmetic treatments can all be used to describe the processes of altering a part of the face or body using a surgical or non-surgical procedure. But if you are considering going in for a bit of nip and tuck or you are not quite ready to go under the knife but feel you need a boost in the looks department, you will need to be able to spot the differences between cosmetic surgery and non-surgical treatments.

Yes, the basic definitions are simple, cosmetic surgery is the umbrella term for any invasive, surgical procedure that must be carried out by a qualified, experienced and registered plastic surgeon. Non-surgical treatments, also known as cosmetic treatments or procedures, is the term used to describe any non-invasive procedures that can be carried out by trained, experienced and registered aesthetic nurses or practitioners within the sterile surroundings of a clinic that is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).

There are some treatments that are minimally invasive and these can be described as either cosmetic surgery or non-surgical treatments. Botox and dermal fillers are two examples of such procedures – they are injectable and therefore can technically be described as invasive but only minimally (i.e. they pierce the skin but only to a shallow depth). And there are some procedures that border on minimally invasive but are actually surgical procedures, such as the so-called mini face lift. This uses keyhole surgery techniques to lift and tighten the skin on the face only leaving very small and barely visible scars in the hairline and by the ears and requires a much shorter recovery time than a full face lift.

Cosmetic surgery covers everything from liposuction surgery and tummy tucks, to breast enlargement and nose jobs, and it is important to understand the exact processes behind each of these if you are considering undergoing them yourself. The same is true of Botox, skin peels, laser hair removal and the like, because while these are non-surgical they still carry their own risks and the only way to reduce these risks is to ensure that you are treated by registered professionals.

In conclusion, when considering cosmetic treatments, surgical or non-surgical, the most important thing to do is thorough research. Research into the procedure itself, the clinic, the surgeon and the potential risks involved is essential for the best experience possible.

Book in for a free consultation at your nearest registered cosmetic surgery clinic and find out more about everything from liposuction surgery to Botox before you decide which treatments are for you.

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