It’s a fine line between going overboard with changes to our bodies as we age, and understanding that there are simply great alternatives to feeling and looking your best.

 

Cosmetic surgery, however you define it, is something that many women consider and which some follow through with and have performed on their bodies. And there are lots of reasons for having procedures done. Women with breast cancer can have breasts reconstructed. Large breasts cause back and health problems and surgery can alleviate this. Women whose eyes droop and face sag can create a more rested look and feel good about reviving the youthful face they once had. As a woman ages its unsettling when she hears her friends and colleagues say to her, “You look tired…” when she doesn’t feel tired. She knows it’s her aging face and eyes. Trust me, I’ve had this experience and I simply don’t like it!

 

But when do little things that we perceive as signs of aging or imperfections and our sense of self –esteem and quest for youth cross the line to an unhealthy outlook on our own image? And what about our young women who are critical of their bodies and seek surgical change at an early age?  Does changing our looks increase our sense of self worth?

 

We’re not stupid. We know the decision for surgery is a serious one. And the opportunities for selecting all types of alternatives to surgery also need serious consideration.

 

For example, I have a friend who is in the television business. Society says we want to look at youthful looking people…so she had an eyelift to keep her career intact.   What is that pressure about? Another friend has varicose veins that cause her pain every day. She has the opportunity to get help with those through surgery and other methods.

 

Cosmetic surgery can be the best thing a woman can do for herself. And so can other methods of getting that healthy glow, losing those cottage cheese thighs and bringing back those youthful looking lips. Sometimes, simply committing to a healthy exercise regimen or a weight loss program is all she needs to get back that glow and self confidence.

 

What’s your opinion on surgery, alternative therapies, yoga, weight loss programs and other methods to help us feel and look the best we can? Have you had surgeries done? Have you found ways to use the other products out there that help you get the look and feel you want without surgery? What about cost? Have you found cost-effective ways to get that lift?   And there are lots of good surgeons, yet sometimes we hear about surgeries with bad results. What have been your experiences?

 

Be sure to read our article this month: Cosmetic Surgery. Do You Dare?