21st-century humanity loves to boast about living healthier than any previous generation. While there is undoubtedly truth to this claim, our modern lifestyle carries numerous risks that often require the expertise of a plastic surgeon to remedy. The frantic pace, increasing workplace burdens, and sedentary work all take a toll on our bodies—not to mention the often unrealistic body images portrayed by the media.
Stress is at the Root of Everything
The boss, the tasks, the deadlines, the kids, the mortgage, the expectations. It is almost impossible to list all the stressors present in the life of an average man or woman today. Constant anxiety and lack of sleep leave their mark not only on our souls but also on our faces. It is increasingly common for men and women barely over 30 to struggle with crow's feet, the "tired eye" phenomenon, and bags under the eyes.
Treating these is considered a routine procedure: sometimes "a little wrinkle treatment" is enough, while in more advanced cases, eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) provides the solution by removing excess skin or protruding fatty tissue.
All in One Sitting
We sit for 8 hours in front of a monitor at work, then another hour in the car on the way home. At home, we sit down for dinner, then spend a few more hours sitting in front of the TV. The popular saying that "sitting is the new smoking" might be an exaggeration, but there is no doubt that the time spent on our backsides—often accompanied by snacking, sugary drinks, or fatty foods—shows up on our bellies (or other fat stores).
In this case, the help of plastic surgery is secondary: a change in lifestyle comes first. After that, liposuction for the most stubborn areas or the removal of excess skin—such as a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), thigh lift, or arm lift—can be considered.
"I Want to Be a Top Model"
Television, the internet, and magazines tempt us with perfectly shaped men and women to encourage consumption. While this is perfectly understandable from a marketing perspective, it can lead to serious body image distortions, especially among younger generations.
Breast augmentation or lip fillers can be effective in achieving a desired look and restoring emotional balance, but such a decision should always be carefully considered and thoroughly discussed.
