The world has become far more open to talking about plastic surgery issues, whether discussing non-invasive procedures such as dermal fillers and Botox, or full facial and body surgical procedures. As people become more comfortable with these topics, the popularity of the procedures has increased.
Another factor, which is augmented by celebrity and social media culture, is the relative candor with which people discuss plastic surgery with others. As a sensitive area for some people and a source of great pride and satisfaction for others, your plastic surgery should be handled by those around you in a manner that is unique to your personality.
Talking to the Etiquette Expert About Plastic Surgery
A recent article by a writer for the Oakland Sun discusses in detail the proper manner in which to talk about cosmetic surgery. This applies also to those who have friends and family that they suspect have had some work done. By following some of the etiquette guidelines laid out in this article, conversations will be more comfortable, and awkward situations can be avoided.
According to etiquette expert and plastic surgery patient Mary Mitchell, who is the author of “The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Etiquette,” the most important point it that it is the patient’s decision to decide how much to reveal and when. Those who suspect something should let the patient reveal it themselves.
However, patients who chose procedures with dramatic results, such as hair replacement or significant breast augmentation, may wish to give their friends a heads up in their first personal interaction following the surgery. If the change is so clear that a friend will know something is different, filling them in helps the relationship and eliminates the white elephant in the room.
Yet for those patients who wish to distract attention from their procedure, making some other significant change can help explain their new confidence and appearance. According to Dr. Donald Brown, “If some do want to disguise the fact they’ve had surgery — for instance, a rhinoplasty (nose job), which would likely be more evident — and if they want to hide it and avoid comments, I suggest they do something very dramatic with their hair, a completely different cut or dramatic color change. Or even perhaps a noticeable clothing change. Most reactions will be: You look great. Love the new hairstyle!”
