Good appearance and self confidence go hand in hand, reveals a research study by the Center for Human Appearance, University of Pennsylvania

Face-lifts boost self-confidence, study shows

While Ponce de Leon may not have ever found the Fountain of Youth, Liverpool-born Plastic Surgeon Professor Laurence Kirwan says that one of the keys to feeling young again is the psychological benefits that accompany certain cosmetic procedures.
A study conducted by the Center for Human Appearance at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine found that 87% of patients felt satisfied following cosmetic surgery, with the added benefits of improvements in their overall body image and with the part of their body that was transformed. These women also felt less negative about their body image in both work and social situations.

During a particularly poor economy, Dr. Kirwan went on to say that this increased confidence could prolong the time a person works, especially when retirement is becoming a less realistic option.

“Another important point worth mentioning is that modern technology has drastically reduced the number of complications arising from traditional forms of some of the most popular procedures,” Dr. Kirwan noted.

Face-lift surgeries such as the SMAS procedure, in which deep facial tissues are tightened and the skin is re-draped over the face, are generally recognized as being some of the safer plastic surgery options.

With over 30 years of experience as a surgeon, Dr. Kirwan approaches cosmetic surgery with a scientific eye and an artistic sensibility which strives for perfection and transcendent beauty.

“Beauty is hard to define but it is instantly recognizable,” he surmised. “A plastic surgeon works from within; changing the framework and re-draping the surface mantle to create beauty.”

However, Dr. Kirwan warned that those who have unrealistic expectations or underlying psychological issues unrelated to their appearance, may experience poor outcomes and disatisfaction.

“Plastic surgery helps you feel better about yourself. It may also change the way people respond to you in a social setting. it doesn’t transform you into someone else,” he noted.