While there are strong opinions about plastic surgery being performed only for vanity, it is considered a medical necessity in some cases. Going under the knife improves an individual’s health and quality of life in many cases, as these surgeries can resolve several health conditions. In such cases, the improved physical appearance due to plastic surgery becomes the secondary benefit. Here’s why an individual may require plastic surgery for medical reasons:

• Craniofacial surgery: This form of plastic surgery is usually performed on cleft lips or palates. Children born with cleft lips usually experience speech and swallowing difficulties and have to face social and emotional challenges. Corrective surgery can help a child lead a better life and lower the risk of chronic issues.
• Breast augmentation : Several women undergo this plastic surgery for medical reasons, and the breast augmentation procedure is often performed on breast cancer survivors. Although mastectomy or breast removal helps eliminate the tumors, it might strongly impact a survivor’s self-esteem. Implants are added after the surgery to help them lead a normal life.
• Breast reduction : Breast reduction as plastic surgery for medical reasons? Yes, this type of plastic surgery is helpful for women whose breasts are disproportionate to the rest of their body. This leaves them constantly feeling weighed down, and they may also experience backaches and leg pain. Reducing the breast size through a surgical procedure makes it more manageable and offers a better quality of life.
• Eyelid lifts : Eyelid dropping makes the skin of the eye hang over the eyelashes and partially obstruct an individual’s vision. This further affects their ability to read, drive, and even wear contact lenses. Surgery is necessary to restore the proper functioning of the eyes in such cases, and any cosmetic benefits that one gets from the surgery are secondary.
• Rhinoplasty : Performing plastic surgery for medical reasons can most commonly be seen in the case of rhinoplasty, a procedure which is also commonly known as a nose job. This surgical procedure enhances the shape of the nose, but it is also performed to ease breathing problems and sleep apnea. Some people are born with nasal abnormalities, or these issues may develop with age, but a successful rhinoplasty can easily fix these problems.
• Reconstructive surgery : Reconstructive or restorative surgery is a highly beneficial treatment method for those who have suffered deep injuries due to an accident, have been bitten by a dog, or have sustained scarring due to a severe burn. Such scars not only affect the physical appearance of an individual but may also affect their confidence and negatively impact their social life.

People who undergo plastic surgery for medical reasons also get cosmetic benefits, but the primary reason for performing these surgeries in such cases is to resolve certain health issues. Accidental injuries or scars left by cancerous diseases often require cosmetic or plastic surgery to help the patient heal on an emotional level as well. This way, plastic surgery performed for medical reasons heavily contributes to an individual’s overall health and wellness.