Dr. Saber’s Blog

It’s Time to Get Rid of Plastic Surgery Shaming

Beauty standards and cosmetic procedures have changed over the years. Although plastic surgery procedures used to be deemed “unsafe” and “unnecessary,” there are millions of people around the world who use this procedure to feel better about themselves. Instead of using body shame to make a person feel bad about their decisions, society needs to continually evolve and learn to accept other people’s life choices. 

Plastic surgery shaming is a harmful and prevalent mindset that people have about clients who choose to get elective procedures. But why does plastic surgery shaming exist? Cosmetic surgery is now a common and helpful practice that can help men and women with their self-esteem, body dysmorphia issues, and other psychological or physical ailments. 

What is cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgery includes both surgical and nonsurgical procedures that alter or change a person’s body image to improve their self-esteem, confidence, and outward appearance. These procedures are not medically necessary but focus on helping a person’s psychological state by boosting their self-confidence and self-love. 

Group of happy people jumping in the air on a beach

Why do people shame plastic surgery patients?

There are many reasons that society has placed shame on people who’ve “had work done.”

  • Jealousy — A person may be jealous that another individual suddenly looks and feels better, whereas they may still feel unhappy in their own body or mindset. 
  • Societal pressure — Society has crafted the narrative that cosmetic surgery is “bad,” and people who get cosmetic surgery are shallow and vain. 
  • “Body positivity” — Ironically, the movement that encourages people to love their bodies has also led to shame for those who use surgery to be more comfortable in their skin.

How common is cosmetic surgery?

Cosmetic surgical procedures are more common than you may think! Although this practice is still thought of as “taboo,” cosmetic surgery is now very common in our society. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), there are 13 million minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the United States each year. And it is not just for women of a certain age group — people of all ages and genders choose to get cosmetic surgery. 

…there are 13 million minimally-invasive cosmetic procedures performed in the United States each year.

Most common cosmetic surgeries

The most common cosmetic surgery procedures include:

  • eyelid surgery
  • facelift
  • nose reshaping (rhinoplasty)
  • liposuction
  • breast augmentation, reduction, or lift
  • dermabrasion
  • neck lift
  • hair replacement
  • lip augmentation
  • reconstructive surgery
  • Botox and fillers

Is cosmetic surgery safe?

Across the board, cosmetic surgery is safe if you choose a reputable, board-certified surgeon. Surgery always comes with some risks — such as infection or complications from anesthesia — but seeing a certified, skilled surgeon limits your risk.

How to prepare for cosmetic surgery

If cosmetic surgery is something that will help your life, then consider these tips to prepare for surgery:

  • Ask yourself WHY you want to change the way that you look (i.e., outward influence vs. internal influence).
  • What areas of my life will be affected by this surgery?
  • Have I discussed the risks, concerns, and questions with my surgeon and general physician? 
  • Do I have a realistic outlook on how the surgery will change my appearance? 

Before scheduling any procedures or surgeries, Dr. Saber will have a consultation with you to go over all these questions. She prioritizes her patient’s wellness and will not move forward with a procedure until all risks and benefits have been discussed and the patient has a realistic expectation of what surgery will achieve.

How plastic surgery benefits you

Plastic surgery can help individuals with body dysmorphia and low self-esteem feel better about themselves. It can improve general wellness — such as relieving back pain with breast reduction surgery — or accompany weight loss by removing excess skin.

Happy man and woman

Does plastic surgery help body dysmorphia?

One of the main reasons individuals may get plastic surgery is to help with psychological concerns, such as body dysmorphic disorder. Body dysmorphia, known as BDD, is a disorder where the person sees their body differently than reality. They may see themselves as bigger, thinner, “fatter,” or less muscular than in truth. 

In this case, getting plastic surgery can help a small percentage of patients with their BDD. Studies have shown that 2% of individuals who suffer from body dysmorphia and get cosmetic surgery show improvements in their mental state. 

Trans and nonbinary patients also turn to plastic surgery to alleviate body dysmorphia or better align their appearance with their identity.

Does cosmetic surgery improve self-esteem?

Cosmetic surgery is a powerful way for both men and women to improve their self-esteem. In fact, cosmetic surgery has been shown to boost a person’s self-esteem by 20%! Other studies showed that there was an improvement in individuals’ self-worth, self-esteem, and quality of life after receiving surgery. 

Is plastic surgery worth it?

People may ask themselves if plastic surgery is worth it. Although there are risks, just like with any type of medical procedure, plastic surgery has both pros and cons that can help every patient make their decision. 

Why cosmetic surgery is good

There are many reasons why cosmetic surgery is good for your mental and physical health:

  • Better mental health — Changing something that you have always been self-conscious about can help you feel better, leading to better mental health, balanced emotional well-being, and a happier outlook on life.
  • Better habits — Cosmetic surgery can help you adopt and maintain better habits, including exercise and diet after a weight loss procedure.
  • Decrease pain — Cosmetic surgery procedures can help ease pain, such as skin procedures or those which improve joint mobility.
  • Reduced skin inflammation — Cosmetic surgery helps reduce skin irritation by getting rid of excess skin or treating chronic skin conditions. 

Cosmetic surgery shame needs to stop

Cosmetic surgery can be the perfect way for you to enhance your self-esteem, feel good about yourself, and have a positive outlook on life. 

If you notice someone has gotten work done, respect their personal choice and trust that they’re doing what’s best for them.

Considering plastic surgery? Talk to Dr. Saber!

Dr. Sepideh Saber’s, MD, FACS, approach to cosmetic surgery combines extensive experience and an empathetic female perspective. This helps her understand the unique needs and anxieties of each patient.

She is a Stanford University-trained board-certified plastic surgeon who has completed residencies at the University of Southern California and New York University.

Patients from all walks of life have found her a valuable ally for their health and self-esteem. She provides various procedures such as rhinoplasties, breast augmentations or reductions, and facelifts. She can also help patients remove old fillers or help them tailor a plan to improve their skin elasticity

To request a consultation, call (877) 205-4100 or schedule a consultation online.

We serve patients in Encino, Woodland Hills, Sherman Oaks, Calabasas, Burbank, Glendale, Hidden Hills, Agoura Hills, Northridge, North Hollywood, Malibu, Topanga, Canoga Park, Reseda, Valley Glen, Chatsworth, West Hills, Winnetka, Universal City, Bel Air, Beverly Hills, Downtown Los Angeles, Silverlake, and Echo Park.

Dr. Saber graduated from Stanford University’s world-renowned medical school and did her plastic and reconstructive surgery residency at the equally lauded University of Southern California. She then completed a fellowship at New York University in the extremely challenging and delicate disciplines of hand surgery and microsurgery.

Dr. Saber offers a more sensitive, female perspective for patients of all ages, genders, and orientations. Former patients from all walks of life have praised not only their treatment outcomes but her caring, thoughtful approach to a wide array of appearance and health-related matters.
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    Dr. Sepideh Saber, MD, FACS

    👩🏻‍⚕️ Board Certified Plastic Surgeon
    🏫 Stanford/USC/NYU Trained
    🏥 Encino, CA | Book a Free Consult
    ☎️ (833) 215-0500
    💌 info@saberplasticsurgery.com

    ✨ Our lovely patient came in for our Breast Augmentation procedure✨

She is only 10 days Post Surgery and her results already look amazing! We were able to achieve a beautiful natural looking result. 

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
____________________________
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⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com
____________________________

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#plasticsurgery  #plasticsurgeon #MommyMakeover #liposuction #tummytuck  #abdominoplasty #cosmeticsurgeon  #HourGlassBySaber #ContouredBySaber #bodybydrsaber  #drsaberpatient #SaberPlasticSurgery #honestplasticsurgeon #beforeandafter #beauty #losangeles
    ✨ Our beautiful patient came in for a Tummy Tuck ✨

Her results are 6 weeks after her procedure. She’s still swollen and the results will continue to improve for the next couple of months! ⏳👙

To set up a complimentary consultation ✨

833-215-0500
Info@saberplasticsurgery.com
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#plasticsurgeon #breastaugmentation #beforeandafter #beauty #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #breastsurgery #losangeles #facelift #breastimplants  #lipinjections #botox #bbl #filler #breastlift #saline #chinlipo #liposuction #defined #consultation
    Thank you, Rachel! Your words truly touch my heart. I'm honored to be recognized as the best in Pasadena😉. I'm committed to always providing the highest level of care for you and all my patients. 🙏❤️

#EmpatheticCare #PatientAppreciation #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
    Rainy days = lay in bed all day 😴☁️
    ✨ Our lovely patient came in for our Rhinoplasty procedure. We were able to achieve a natural end result. 

We are absolutely thrilled with her results! ✨

Give us a call to set up a complimentary consultation with #DrSaber who will create a customized plan for you!
____________________________
⁠
⭐️To set up a consultation:⁠
🔸 Call : (833) 215-0500⁠
🔸 info@saberplasticsurgery.com ⁠
🔸 saberplasticsurgery.com
____________________________
#rhinoplasty #MommyMakeover #liposuction #tummytuck  #tummytucksurgery #abdominoplasty #tummytuckjourney #breastimplants #breastsurgery #breastaugmentation #plasticsurgery  #plasticsurgeon #cosmeticsurgeon  #HourGlassBySaber #ContouredBySaber #bodybydrsaber  #drsaberpatient #SaberPlasticSurgery #honestplasticsurgeon #beforeandafter #beauty #losangeles #filler #rejuvenate
    Rudy, your praise warms my heart! Thank you for your trust and recommendation. 

#GratefulDoctor  #PatientRecommendation #cosmeticsurgeon #plasticsurgery #plasticsurgeonlosangeles #losangeles #liposuctionlosangeles #drsaberplasticsurgery
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  • What patients say about Dr. Saber

    4.8
    Over 16 Reviews

    I was fortunate to find Dr. Saber after researching board-certified surgeons who specialize in breast cancer reconstruction revision surgery. I knew I was in good hands from the moment I spoke with the lovely and efficient Marlene, Dr Saber's office manager. Dr Saber patiently listened to my concerns and, after examining me, explained what I could realistically expect the outcome to be from another surgery. She also explained to me that she would need to review my previous surgery notes before we could discuss a possible further surgery, which I found comforting and highly ethical. I also discussed a couple of other procedures that I would like done, including fat removal from my large upper arms that had caused me great embarrassment for several years. Dr. Saber is an excellent surgeon who is incredibly kind and genuine. She truly understands the female body and the emotional aspect of body insecurities yet, she is transparent about what can and cannot be done and takes time to discuss realistic expectations and outcomes. My breast reconstruction revision surgery will take place in the New Year, but in the meantime, I have the most fabulous upper arms that I recently flaunted in a strapless dress (something I have not done in years). Dr Saber is truly one of a kind, and I still cannot believe how fortunate I am to have found her. I highly recommend Dr Saber.

    Linda DeCarlo November 29, 2023

    I don’t have enough wonderful words to describe Dr Saber and Marlene! I had a tummy tuck done this year and from start to finish the entire experience was amazing. Marlene is always so helpful and works so hard to make every detail a breeze for you. When I had my consultation with Dr Saber I was at a point of complete agony with my body. She instantly took that stress and frustration off my shoulders! As a woman not being heard by doctors for years I left that consultation with happy tears knowing I had finally found my Dr. It was a major surgery and I felt completely zen and at peace going in because she really does make you feel that safe. I didn’t think I would ever look the way I do now! She gave me the gift of having the body I kept fighting for. I will never stop recommending her.

    Monica Prusa October 9, 2023

    I saw Dr. Saber when I broke my wrist. I ended up having to have surgery. She did an excellent job and I am healing nicely. She was very professional, but was also very kind and compassionate. I would highly recommend her!!

    Sandy Schaupp September 13, 2022

    I LOVED DR SABER!!! There are a few reasons why I chose her. One was because she’s a female Doctor that was my goal who also did a good job (which I was able to confirm with all her before and after photos) and what sold me was my safety in mind. She made me feel like I was in the best hands ever along with Marlene who coordinated everything THANK YOU LADIES! Dr Saber helped me get back the body I have always desired. I had a lot of stomach fat from weight gain and I lost weight so a lot of my weight was in my front lower and upper abdomen. Now I have a super beautiful curvy body like an hourglass after a tummy tuck and lipo she did. She understood the assignment hahaha . I’m 32 years old no kids just wanted to enjoy my younger body looking and feeling beautiful and she really took good care of me. Even after hours I had an emergency due to my fault but she was there and got back to me very quickly and I’m very grateful. I also think her work says a lot because I stopped taking pain medication on the 3rd day after surgery and was fine with very minimal pain I was able to tolerate the healing process. Highly recommend going with her I just had a wonderful experience and would do it all over again if I had too. Maybe after I have kids. Thanks Dr Saber and team <3

    STEPHANIE d July 15, 2022

    Dr.Saber is by far one of the best plastic surgeons. I love how she takes her time to explain any procedure to the patients understanding. She always makes sure to answers any and all questions.From fillers to body contours she’s the one you want.

    Katherine Melara February 15, 2022

    Dr Saber is amazing! She is caring and very informative. I went in for fillers and she explained procedure step by step. I highly recommend her and look forward to future visits.

    Amanda Vazquez December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber was friendly, knowledgeable and professional. She took time to listen, answer all my questions and was forthright in her recommendations. Her staff was friendly and helpful. I was very happy with the results and plan on going back. If you are looking for a first rate professional experience look no further she is the doctor for you!

    T R December 18, 2020

    Dr. Saber is one of a kind plastic surgeon with a heart of gold. She is a well verse plastic surgeon that puts her patient's needs before anything else. She genuinely cares about every single patient, and her work speaks for itself. I notice every post-operative result on her Instagram (@saberplasticsurgery) the patients have this glow that radiates through. I have been going to Dr. Saber for my Botox for the past 3 years, and love the results every time. I know who I will be going to for any future plastic surgery needs, and will confidently refer family and friends to Dr. Saber for any Botox, fillers, and plastic surgery consultations.

    Rudy Garcia December 16, 2020

    I have nothing but great things to say about Dr. Saber! I am so pleased with my results from a breast augmentation she performed on me back in late June! She answered all my questions and concerns before and after my surgery. She’s very easy to get in contact with and she’s so nice. She made feel so comfortable throughout the whole process. 100/10 Lover her work!!

    Amanda Villegas October 15, 2020

    Dr Saber is hands down the best surgeon! She took her time answering my questions and explained procedure in detail. After doing liposuction six months ago, I am extremely happy with my results and I appreciate her so much.

    Marlene Cosentino October 15, 2020

    Dr. Saber is so kind and thorough with her patients! She is an amazing doctor and genuinely cars about everyone she comes in contact with. I would recommend her to anyone for any hand surgery or cosmetic procedure.

    Rachel Meach October 15, 2020