Dr. Anshuman Manaswi is a renowned cosmetic, plastic surgeon and Consultant. He is considered to be a pioneer of some innovative techniques of breast reconstruction and genital reconstructions. He is proficient in cosmetic procedures like liposuctions, breast reductions and augmentations, facial implants and face lifts.
Few days back, Telugu actress Aarthi Agarwal died after undergoing liposuction surgery. After this incident, our Editor in Chief Vaidehi Sachin had interviewed many cosmetic surgeons to know about cosmetic surgery. In this series, she had conducted an email interview with Dr Anshuman Manaswi who said that surgery is safe if it is conducted by a qualified surgeon. Here are the excerpts of this interview.
As a cosmologist what are those biggest myth about beauty that you want to clarify? I mean by performing surgeries anyone can become anybody?
The biggest myth is that a cosmetologist or cosmetic surgeon can change the profile of a patient totally and make him or her an entirely different person. Another myth is that total body colour can be changed.
Recently many deaths have occurred due to liposuction, however safe it may be?
Liposuction is very safe provided it is performed within limits. Very large volume of fat (more than 10% of body weight) can give rise to fluid and electrolyte imbalance and other complications. If the surgery is performed by a qualified Plastic surgeon and done within limits it is very safe.
What is the biggest difference between non surgical weight reduction and surgical way of losing weight?
Non surgical weight reduction relies on diet and exercises whereas bariatric surgery either reduces the capacity of the stomach or the food is bypassed. In some cases liposuction or Tummy tuck can also reduce weight. But liposuction is essentially a reshaping surgery
What are the biggest challenges that you face as a doctor?
The biggest challenge as a cosmetic surgeon is from unqualified cosmetologist who has cropped up all over imparting improper treatment. Another challenge is that people come with over expectation and also do not understand that any surgery whether cosmetic or otherwise has to be performed under the supervision of a qualified plastic surgeon.
Is it affordable for the common man?
Yes. The charges depends on the type of hospital the patient is operated.
Who should undergo such treatments?
Anybody who wishes to look good can avail these services.
What are the dos and don’ts of surgical beautification?
Surgical beautification is permanent and most cost effective in the long run however for that patient has to remain mentally prepared. There is a longer downtime and the patient has to be surgically fit
What are the risks involved in such procedures?
If the patient is fit for surgery, the chances of complications are reduced significantly. Further there can be infection or hematoma sometimes which can be taken care off. There may be surgery specific complications about which the clients should discuss with the plastic/cosmetic surgeon
How much desired change can be guaranteed by doctors?
Generally, whatever the doctor says can be achieved to quite an extent. Although “Guaranteed results” practised by some are misleading because body at times reacts differently. But in my practice, if explained well, patient’s satisfaction level is very high.
Do patients suffer from any identity crises issues after undergoing facial surgery?
Normal cosmetic procedure usually does not lead to any identity crisis, but major and multiple reconstructions at times can lead to such a phenomenon. In such a case, patients are counselled about it before.
Do people undergo surgeries as they crave for looking more beautiful or is it due to circumstances?
In general people who want to look younger and beautiful come for cosmetic surgeries. These may be because of work requirement, societal pressure, inferiority complex or a simple desire to feel good about self. Very rarely, we come across some cosmetic surgery addicts
Have you ever faced awkward situations from patients?
Laughs. At times yes, but mostly on the lighter side of life
What is your message to our readers?
There is no crime in looking good and flaunting yourself. But please do so with qualified and authentic doctors. There are so many fake degrees circulating and beware of them. This will ensure that the quality of treatment is good and you won’t be Penny wise and Pound foolish.
