THE EVOLUTION OF PLASTIC SURGERY – HOW FAR WE’VE COME AND WHERE WE’RE HEADED

Although we are inclined to think that plastic surgery is a modern practice, it actually goes way back in the past. Plastic surgery has a long history of improving physical deformities and improving the quality of life. It has its roots in ancient times, from where it sprung into modern times and got another name – cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgery is super advanced today and can be performed with minimally invasive techniques. Plus, it’s constantly developing to bring even better results, offer safer techniques, shorten the recovery period, and increase patients’ satisfaction rates. From simple tools to sophisticated technologies, plastic surgery has really come a long way.

THE EARLY BEGINNINGS OF PLASTIC SURGERY

Ancient times are when the foundations of plastic surgery were laid. It all started in India, where doctors performed the first skin graft surgeries. The predisposition for performing plastic surgery in this period meant that doctors had some pretty deep knowledge of human anatomy. There are records of the first reconstructive surgeries on earlobes, lips, and noses – these were the early starts.

The technique of reconstructive surgery was then introduced to the West – it was refined and adapted.

PLASTIC SURGERY DURING THE MIDDLE AGES

Then came Middle Ages and Renaissance – the period when cosmetic surgery was given another kick. It was the time of scientific discoveries that led to improved surgical methods. During this time, appeared written documents about facial and eyelid plastic surgery. Plus, this is when the first treatment of gynecomastia was performed which paved the way for modern techniques of breast reduction surgeries.

ADVANCEMENT AT THE START OF THE 20TH CENTURY

The next important period that propelled plastic surgery was the start of the 20th century. Actually, World War I brought plastic surgery to a whole new level. A huge number of soldiers needed reconstructive surgery when they returned from the battlefield. Reconstructive surgery became a necessity and surgeons dedicated their time to studying how to help these soldiers restore their previous appearance. These doctors were true pioneers in plastic surgery – they performed skin grafts and offered the soldiers transformative outcomes.

Then came World War II and surgeons came up with new techniques in plastic surgery – some of them are still used today. The goal was to improve the soldiers’ physical appearance and return their life to normal. As they already had experience in skin grafts, surgeons reconstructed soldiers’ faces as much as they could. They also reconstructed the bones on soldiers’ faces and worked on the soft tissues.

This is when the idea of cosmetic surgery first emerged. What these surgeons did was really evolutionary – they restored the normal appearance and functionality of the soldiers’. Plus, the soldiers could pick the appearance of the nose or jaw that the surgeons would construct for them. It may sound strange but that was the early beginning of cosmetic plastic surgery.

PLASTIC SURGERY IN THE MODERN TIMES

Then came the 1960s and 1970s – the period which marked plastic surgery as we know it today. This was the moment when plastic surgeons became an important part of the medical sciences.

The invention of silicone breast implants was a game-changer. It revolutionized the world of plastic surgery because these implants started to be used for cosmetic breast enhancement even though they were initially developed to treat imperfections of the skin. During the following decades, silicone was so much developed that it could be used in almost any part of the body or face. People had a huge realm of possibilities for body contouring and augmentation.

Then in the 90s, plastic surgery was massively pushed into public awareness. People started to change their views on plastic surgery and it stopped being a taboo topic. People could find out more legitimate information about plastic surgeries  Plus, this period was marked by the economic boom, so plastic surgery became accessible to the mainstream population. The demand for cosmetic plastic surgeries was on a huge rise.

PLASTIC SURGERY TODAY

The start of the 21st century marks the moment when advancement in technology really takes the lead. It brought so many revolutionary breakthroughs in plastic surgery. New, safe and effective instruments and techniques pushed the limits of what was once considered possible. New technology improved precision and minimized scarring after plastic surgery like hair transplantation.

The risk of scarring was much greater before, regardless of the plastic surgery. It was especially an issue after plastic surgeries which were performed on the faces. But with the development of smaller instruments and thinner cannulas, surgeons can perform plastic surgeries as before but they can make smaller incisions. This way the risk of scarring is greatly reduced.

VISUAL IMAGING OF PLASTIC SURGERY OUTCOMES

Then came 3D imaging which allows plastic surgeons to create customized plastic surgery plans, for example, the most suitable silicone implants for breast augmentation. The patients can visualize the final outcomes and bring more informed decisions before undergoing plastic surgery. This improves results and reduces the recovery period – the patients’ satisfaction rate hit the roof!

Plus, silicone implants have been further improved and developed. The latest generation of implants is so advanced that patients don’t have to remove them every ten years as before. They also have a microchip inside that holds every information necessary for monitoring them and avoiding complications. Ladies simply love them because they don’t have to undergo another surgery to replace or remove these silicone implants.

HUGE BREAKTHROUGHS IN LIPOSUCTION TECHNIQUES

Another huge advancement in plastic surgery is minimally invasive procedures that bring excellent results and minimize risks and side effects. For example, there is laser-assisted liposuction that helps plastic surgeons to make precise incisions, liquify fat cells and tighten the skin all at the same time.

Or there is a super popular Tumescent lipo that can be performed under local anesthesia. A special tumescent solution is injected into the targeted area that numbs the area and constricts blood flow – this greatly reduces post-surgical bruising or bleeding. And it is completely painless and prevents side effects associated with general anesthesia. After tumescent lipo, patients can return to their routine after just a couple of days. These new types of liposuction are now a gold standard for this type of plastic surgery.

FAT GRAFTING – THE SURGERY THAT PUSHED THE BOUNDARIES

Fat-grafting plastic surgery is perhaps one of the most advanced surgical procedures. It is a brilliant surgery that has a double benefit. First, the surgeon extracts the unwanted fat deposits from a donor area which immediately slims down and contours this area. Then the surgeon transfers this fat into the patient’s breasts and performs breast augmentation that brings the most natural-looking results.

Or, the surgeon can perform a super popular BBL procedure that enhances the patient’s buttocks. Both surgeries bring the patient’s entire figure into perfect harmony.

Finally, fat transfer can also be performed on faces for ultimate rejuvenation. The surgeon injects the patient’s own fat into wrinkles and fine lines or hollow areas on the face. This immediately returns the youthful plumpness to the patient’s face. What’s awesome about fat grafting is that fat is the most natural dermal filler – there are no risks like infections or adverse reactions. This surgery is a true example of revolutionary advancements in plastic surgery.

WHAT ARE THE NEXT STEPS IN THE DEVELOPMENT OF PLASTIC SURGERY?

We should definitely praise all the advancements in plastic surgery, but they don’t stop here. The trends of cosmetic surgery are always changing so plastic surgeons must keep up with the new procedures. Plus, more and more people are demanding minimally invasive plastic surgeries that bring them brilliant results and shorter recovery. Nobody has the time to sit at home for months anymore.

Since a serious science is behind plastic surgery, it’s no wonder that the techniques and technologies in this field are constantly improving and developing. New advancements are emerging almost every day. For example, eyelid lift surgery was pretty tricky before. But today, anybody can get this surgery in a completely safe manner. It has become a routine surgery.

There is the latest skin-tightening treatment called Renuvion J Plasma which uses helium to reduce fine lines and wrinkles and resurface the skin. It is an amazing and minimally invasive procedure that improves various skin imperfections. There are no incisions or stitches only amazing outcomes. The downtime is minimal. This plastic surgery can really transform patient’s life and restore their confidence.

STEM CELLS – THE NEWEST ADVANCEMENT IN PLASTIC SURGERY

Or there are new breakthroughs in the use of stem cells – plastic surgeons are super excited about this. We can expect tissue engineering combined with stem cells in the future. Think about growing skin for skin grafting. Or they might also be injectable stem cell fillers that will bring ultimate rejuvenation.

We can expect marvels in the future development of plastic surgeries which will enrich and improve our quality of life even further.

So, from the early beginnings to super advanced techniques and technologies, plastic surgery has gone a long way. It has transformed extraordinarily – the same way it transforms the lives of so many people today. It will continue to push the boundaries and strive for perfection.

LUCIA CLINIC PLASTIC SURGERY – ALWAYS AT THE FOREFRONT OF NEW DEVELOPMENTS

We will end our journey through the history and evolution of plastic surgery at Lucia Clinic – a prestigious and eminent dermatology, anti-ageing, and plastic surgery center in Dubai. Lucia Clinic’s plastic surgeons are board-certified experts who perform all plastic surgeries with the latest techniques and technologies. Always thirsty for knowledge, they attend all important conferences and events, where they learn about scientific progress, but also share their findings with their colleagues.

Lucia’s plastic surgeons offer their patients safe, effective, and state-of-the-art plastic surgeries that bring superior and natural-looking results. They create bespoke treatment plans for their patients because they believe that every patient is different and deserves individual attention. Their knowledge and effort really help their patient to improve the quality of their lives. Whether it’s reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, the satisfaction rate is really high. The journey toward improved body image and increased self-confidence are really special with Lucia Clinic’s plastic surgeons.

Visit Lucia Clinic and schedule your consultation with plastic surgeons. Find out everything about the safest and most advanced plastic surgeries today.