Why some cosmetic treatments make you look good, while others appear overdone

Why do some people look natural after plastic surgery while others look “done”? The difference usually has less to do with the procedure itself, and far more to do with judgment, restraint and the provider’s experience.

The goal of great plastic surgery is not to make someone look different, but to restore what time has gradually taken away.

When surgery or injectable treatments are done properly, the patient simply appears rested, healthier and younger. Often, friends cannot tell exactly what was done, they just notice that the person looks good. Unnatural results often occur when treatments are excessive or poorly planned. Too much filler can create puffiness in the cheeks or lips, and poorly performed surgery can make a face appear tight or pulled.

The face is a delicate balance of skin, fat, muscle and bone. Treating only one area without considering the harmony of the entire face can easily lead to an artificial appearance.

The biggest factor separating natural from unnatural results is judgment, knowing how much is enough and when to stop. Plastic surgery and injectables are not simply products; they are techniques that depend heavily on the provider’s experience and artistic eye.

For patients considering treatment, choosing the right surgeon is critical. Look for a physician who is board certified in facial plastic surgery or plastic surgery, has many years of experience, and performs the procedure you are considering on a regular basis.

Reviewing before and after photographs and speaking openly with the surgeon about goals and expectations can also help ensure a natural outcome. The best plastic surgery should be almost invisible. Patients should still look like themselves, just refreshed and well rested.

Dr. Carlos Wolf is a partner in Miami Plastic Surgery and is board certified. Email questions to him at Cwolf@miamiplasticsurgery.com