While it is true that beauty is only skin deep and it is the person “inside” who is most important, we are all being judged constantly on how we look and dress. Most people, especially in competitive work and social environments want to look as youthful as possible for as long as possible to enhance their prospects of success. There is a rapidly growing trend in most western countries to accept cosmetic procedures. In surveys 80% of women feel they would have a cosmetic procedure if the treatment were safe, effective and subtle, so that it was not obvious to the observer. Cosmetic surgery, once the domain of only the rich and famous, is now commonplace. However many people see cosmetic surgery as a step-too-far and prefer to seek effective alternatives. There is therefore a popular range of effective safe therapies as alternatives to cosmetic surgery . For rejuvenation of the skin surface there are treatments like chemical peels and microdermabrasion to enhance the aura and skin glow. These treatments can chemically or mechanically remove the uppermost skin layers, increase cell turnover and stimulate collagen and elastin production. Microdermabrasion and chemical peels both help to improve the health of the skin, and can remove or diminish fine lines, and many brown and/or red skin blemishes. The microdermabrasion and peels can be combined with mesotherapy to further enhance the skin tone. Mesotherapy ensures a good supply of vitamins and minerals and other micro-nutrients to the skin. Mesotherapy also promotes proper skin hydration. Chemical peels are of varying strengths and nature and should be carefully chosen appropriate to the patient skin type and aims of the treatment. Chemical peels, microdermabrasion and mesotherapy can be used singly or in harmony to treat and enhance not only the face but also the neck, hands and the de collete. Whilst much attention is lavished on the face, the body too can be rejuvenated using the VelaSmooth cellulite machine to smooth away cellulite and the SmartLipo laser lipolysis system to literally and safely melt away stubborn deposits of fat. The VelaSmooth machine (from Syneron) is an FDA approved system to reduce the appearance of cellulite. The VelaSmooth treatment requires a course of a dozen sessions to restore the smoothness and appearance of cellulite. The SmartLipo laser is able to simply and methodically remove specific fat deposits with complete accuracy and reliability. The procedure should be carried out by a trained medical doctor in a specially prepared operating theatre. The Healthcare Commission should have specifically inspected and passed the theatre as being fit for purpose. Patients are strongly advised to avoid having smart lipo laser lipolysis in less than suitable premises. Patients should check if the theatre that they are offered has been specifically inspected and passed for the Smartlipo procedure.

So why not consider alternatives to cosmetic surgery, especially if they are really effective? If you still can’t make up your mind, go to any Aesthetics centre like Wimpole Aesthetics where you can get good advices.