Plastic surgery can address a wide range of reconstructive and cosmetic concerns. Reconstructive procedures may help repair defects caused by injuries, burns, congenital conditions, cancer surgery or other illnesses. Plastic surgeons may also treat certain hand conditions, facial injuries and tissue defects. Cosmetic surgery focuses on changing features such as the breasts, nose, abdomen, eyelids or body contours. The appropriate procedure depends on the individual's condition, goals, overall health and expected benefits.

Reconstructive surgery may be considered when an injury, illness, congenital condition or previous surgery has affected the appearance or function of a body part. It may help restore tissue, improve movement, repair structural defects or rebuild areas affected by treatment, such as breast or head and neck reconstruction after cancer surgery. The timing depends on the type and extent of the problem, overall health, healing and any other treatments required. A plastic surgeon can assess the condition and discuss appropriate reconstructive options.

Common cosmetic procedures include facelift, eyelid surgery, rhinoplasty, brow lift, chin surgery and neck lift for the face and neck. Body procedures may include breast augmentation, breast lift, breast reduction, liposuction, tummy tuck, arm lift and body lift. The choice depends on the area a person wants to change and their individual goals. A consultation with a qualified plastic surgeon can help determine whether a particular procedure is appropriate and what results can realistically be expected.

Before surgery, the plastic surgeon reviews your medical history, current medicines and supplements, lifestyle factors and the goals you hope to achieve. A physical examination may be performed to assess your general health and the area being treated. The surgeon will discuss the procedure, expected results, alternatives, anaesthesia, possible complications and recovery requirements. Conditions such as diabetes or other long-term illnesses may need to be well controlled before surgery. Smoking and nicotine use can also increase surgical risks and affect healing.

Consider why you want the procedure, whether your expectations are realistic and whether you understand what surgery can and cannot change. You should also consider the potential risks, recovery time, costs and possible effects on work, family or daily activities. Your overall health matters as well, and certain medical conditions may increase surgical risks. Discuss your goals openly with a qualified plastic surgeon and ask about alternatives, expected results and complications before deciding whether cosmetic surgery is appropriate for you.

Recovery varies depending on the procedure, but patients may experience swelling, bruising, soreness and temporary changes in sensation during healing. Your surgical team will provide instructions regarding medicines, wound care, activity restrictions and follow-up appointments. You may need help with certain daily activities immediately after surgery and should gradually return to normal activity as advised. Swelling can take weeks or months to fully settle, and some procedures may take much longer before final results become visible.