Ana and Nayara
This is a guest post from Ravishly's special Conversation series on the cosmetic surgery debate. Have a story or perspective you'd like to share? Email ravishly@ravishly.com.
Brazil and America are currently wrestling for the dubious title of performing the most cosmetic surgeries in the world. We decided to ask a couple women who hail from South America but share the United States' obsession with nips, tucks and tighter tooshes, to talk about their own experience and desire to alter their bodies.
Nayara Leandro, 26
1. What was your greatest motivation for having cosmetic surgery?
Initially, I wanted the surgery because I was dissatisfied with the size of my breasts. In 2009, I had a reductive mammoplasty to balance their size, and improve my own comfort. Before the surgery, buying bikinis, bras, or even just a top was torment. Nothing would fit properly, I was always uncomfortable, and suffered from low self-esteem.
2. Though it’s common for many people to consider cosmetic surgery, actually making the decision to go under the knife takes more commitment than most have. Was this procedure your first and only, or do you plan to have more in the future?
It was my first cosmetic surgery and I have to say, I am not motivated enough to go through the whole thing again. Sometimes I think I should’ve had a liposuction on the side part of my breasts because I am a little chubby, which bothers me a little bit. I often think about doing it, but have not yet decided.
3. How did your family and friends react to your decision to have cosmetic surgery? Is it difficult for you to talk with them about it?
Actually very few people knew I was going to have the operation, and while I prefered to keep it a secret, everyone who knew gave me the greatest support. The only thing I can remember that bothered me was the day before the surgery, a college classmate talked to me about the risks of having cosmetic surgery. I really don’t think this is something you should say to somebody the day before they actually have the surgery. The conversation left me very upset. My guy friends were joking saying I shouldn’t have my breasts reduced, because it was my “charm.” But it was all just a joke; they were very supportive and visited me several times at home.
4. Are there any cosmetic procedures that are too expensive for you to consider?
No. I just think about doing the mini-liposuction on the side of the breasts, may end up being a more complete liposuction, to take advantage of the fact I'm already paying the hospital. But at the moment my priorities are different. The surgeries are expensive, and I prefer to do other things with the money, like traveling somewhere.
5. Do you have any regrets about the procedure(s)?
The postoperative period was not very easy. My body rejected some of the stitches, and at some point I had an allergy to the post-surgical bra, and I also had a inflamation problem on the stitches which was pretty painful, but I would do it again. My self esteem raised 100% after surgery and I am very pleased with the results. Nowadays I can use a bikini, it is a lot easier to buy bras and even to wear a party dress. It's pretty nifty to have this freedom, and I'm very happy with it. I had the surgery four years ago and I am still very satisfied.
***
Ana Paula, 28
1. What was your biggest motivation for having cosmetic surgery?
The procedure I had was mammoplasty with silicone prostheses, which removes the extra skin of saggy breasts. The prostheses are supposed to give the breasts projection and beauty. Surely the main motivation was aesthetics. I didn’t like the way my breasts looked after I gave birth to my daughter a few years ago.
2. Though it’s common for many people to consider cosmetic surgery, actually making the decision to go under the knife takes more commitment than most have. Was this procedure your first and only, or do you plan to have more in the future?
There really is a big difference between "wanting" and actually deciding to have the surgery done. Research is a very important part of deciding to have plastic surgery. Beyond the aesthetic need, it is important to dedicate some time for researching the various methods, choosing the right doctor, knowing the risks, possible results, and recovery process. Yes, it was my first, and I cannot say if it will be the last.
3. How did your family and friends react to your decision to have cosmetic surgery? Is it difficult for you to talk with them about it?
My family and friends supported me, since they were aware of my desire and need for the surgery.
4. Are there any cosmetic procedures that are too expensive for you to consider?
There is no surgery I wouldn’t have due to cost, but right now I have nothing in mind.
5. Do you have any regrets about the procedure(s)?
Yes, the first week after the procedure I had regrets, because the post-operative period is very hard and painful. But only ten days after the surgery, I was already feeling great. As they say: "ready for another." And I am very pleased with the results.
