Monday, October 18, 2010

A Little History on Plastic Surgery

Despite what some may think, plastic surgery wasn’t always just for the rich and famous! Interestingly enough, the history of plastic surgery began more than 4,000 years ago!  The first documented surgical procedures date way back to 800 B.C. in India where physicians used skin grafts for reconstructive work.  However, plastic surgery progressed at a very slow rate for hundreds of years.  It wasn’t until the 20th century that plastic surgery really established itself in the medical field in the U.S.

So, why is it called plastic surgery?  There is a common misconception surrounding the word “plastic” in plastic surgery.  Plastic is actually derived from the ancient Greek word “plastikos”, which means to mold or to give form.  In 1827, America's very first plastic surgeon, Dr. John Mettauer, practiced his talent of “plastikos” by performing the first cleft palate operation with instruments he designed himself!

In the late 1800’s and early 1900’s, there was an increase in the demand for plastic surgeons due to World War I.  Physicians had to treat a large number of wounded soldiers for all types of injuries.  This gave physicians a chance to improve their reconstructive skills.  Aesthetic surgical procedures also developed during this time as people began to realize how someone’s talent and value might be over looked by society due to a deformity or imperfection.

By the 1950’s, the idea of enhancing beauty through plastic surgery starting spreading throughout the population, hitting Hollywood first!  One of the most iconic gals in show time, Marilyn Monroe, turned to plastic surgery for a chin augmentation to help her land a gig in the movies - next thing you know, she hit the big screen.  Other movie stars to partake in a little nip & tuck to maintain their youthful looks were the beautiful Rita Hayworth, Joan Crawford and Elizabeth Taylor.  

Nowadays, plastic surgery is more popular than ever!  Thanks to cutting-edge science and technology of the 2000’s the quality behind plastic surgery has made it a forefront in the medical profession.  With the internet providing a convenient way of sharing information on all procedures from Breast Augmentations to Brazilian Butt Lifts, aesthetic plastic surgery has become more accessible to the mainstream public. 

Not only are the rich and famous indulging in plastic surgery to look their best on screen, many everyday people are seeking out the best plastic surgeons to look and feel their best too! 

Call today to learn more about our expert and board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Armando Soto and the services we offer here at our Orlando, Florida Plastic Surgery, Skincare and Hair Restoration Center - let us help you look and feel your very best!



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