Reality TV shows like: “The Swan”, “Addicted to Beauty”, “Dr. 90210”, “I Want a Famous Face” and “Extreme Makeover” may be entertaining to watch, but portray a false image of what plastic surgery really is.

While shows like “Dr. 90210” document real life stories of patients from the consultation stage, surgery day, and post op, shows like these portray plastic surgery as a “quick fix”, when in reality, the process of plastic surgery must be careful and well thought out. Especially when it comes to choosing a plastic surgeon. Many of the surgeons on Television are not board certified plastic surgeons in Los Angeles. When choosing a plastic surgeon you want a surgeon to be board certified with the American Board of Plastic Surgeons (ABPS) and a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS).

Plastic surgery can definitely enhance and refine your appearance and get rid of long lingering insecurities, but cannot be thought of as magic, as is portrayed in many reality shows today. Creating unhealthy, and unrealistic expectations of plastic surgery, patients are not grasping the idea that plastic surgery is real surgery, with real benefits, alternative results, and risks. Individual patients’ features are unique and influence the results of plastic surgery, making it impossible to achieve “Angelina Jolie’s nose” or “Scarlet Johansson’s breasts”, as many surgeons in reality TV shows promise. Patients should be wary of surgeons who claim they can make a person look like someone else. Patients must realize that surgeons are real people without magic wands, but medical training.

These TV programs are pure entertainment and when a program is about entertainment, drama and ratings, being informative and educational can be a real drag. Reality-based shows about plastic surgery have to cut out the “boring” stuff, yet it is the “boring” stuff that can be the most informative and educational with a topic like plastic surgery. While these shows can give you some insight into the rewards of plastic surgery, it is important to get the information you need from a certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Ivan Thomas. He will make sure that his patient’s expectations are realistic, that the procedures will benefit them, and that they are ready to undergo such a treatment. You can schedule a free consultation to learn about what Dr. Thomas can do to enhance and refine your appearance, while giving you the information you need to have a safe and rewarding plastic surgery experience.

Key Words: Addicted to Beauty, Reality Plastic Surgery Shows, The Swan, Dr. 90210, I Want a Famous Face, Extreme Makeover, Ivan Thomas MD, Los Angeles Plastic Surgeon