It might be surprising, but plastic surgery does not involve plastic. The name simply comes from “plastikos,” an Ancient Greek word meaning “to mold.” It’s a practice that stems from humble beginnings, nearly 4,000 years ago in Ancient Egypt. We know this, because an old papyrus detailed a primitive approach for repairing broken noses.
1,000 years later, an Indian physician named Sushruta Samhita, made significant progress in the field. He pioneered various operations and detailed them in a compendium, including how to reconstruct the nose using a leaf and skin from the forehead. 2,000 more years later, his works were translated into Arabic and spread to Europe via trade, where plastic surgery saw incredible innovation.
Once the 20th Century turned and the World Wars kicked off, plastic surgery was looked to more than ever before. At this point, surgeons were not only treating soldiers’ wounds but also attempting to make the areas look as they once did before combat. This focus on aesthetic improvement was not unnoticed by the general public. In 1946, organizations of plastic surgeons began popping up, further legitimizing the field and increasing public interest.
Today, plastic surgery is sometimes viewed more cynically as a purely aesthetic endeavor, but that could be further from the case. It also encompasses procedures that are reconstructive or medically necessary, like cleft lip repair; reconstruction of extremities like hands and ears after accidents; and reconstruction after oral, breast, or skin cancer, just to name a few examples.
A facial plastic surgeon has specific training and practice focus on the areas from the neck up—areas that are especially visible, and associated with our sense of self. At Russell Facial Plastics, Dr. Joseph Russell performs many plastic surgeries of the head, face, and neck that focus on restoring and enhancing the complex anatomy of these regions.
Modern Rhinoplasty
This surgery has long been seen as just a cosmetic enhancement, but modern approaches take functionality into account more than before. This way, the surgeon can also help the patient breathe better (by correcting issues that block airflow), rather than simply changing the nose’s shape.
Some patients undergo a rhinoplasty to refine the shape and size of their nose and to improve facial harmony. For others, the procedure may help correct issues such as a deviated septum, nasal asymmetry, or obstructions that restrict airflow. In many cases, surgeons address both cosmetic and functional concerns during the same procedure, helping patients achieve results that look natural while also improving their quality of life.
Revision procedures present another important aspect of modern facial plastic surgery. Sometimes, patients seek secondary procedures after previous ones left them dissatisfied or worsened their breathing. Because revision procedures often involve scar tissue, weakened cartilage, or altered nasal anatomy, they can be more complex than the initial surgery and require a highly individualized approach.
Modern Face Lifting
Another specialized procedure that Dr. Russell provides is the deep plane facelift, which he learned during his fellowship under one of its pioneers, and that he has continued to refine over the past decade. Compared to a traditional procedure in which the skin is simply pulled taut, a deep plane facelift actually lifts the sagging layers beneath the skin too. By manipulating fascia and repositioning fat and muscle, the results last longer and look far more natural.
While rhinoplasty and facelift are two of the most recognizable plastic surgery procedures, they are by no means the only options available. A wide range of cosmetic, reconstructive, and functional procedures exist and can be tailored to each patient’s unique needs and goals. As a double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon, Dr. Joseph Russell combines specialized approaches with the individual care that each patient deserves. One of his drives in life is helping patients feel comfortable and confident when they look in the mirror.
Learn More About Facial Plastic Surgery:
To learn more about available facial plastic surgery procedures or to determine which treatment may align with your goals, schedule a consultation by calling (843) 284-6110 or by filling out a contact form.