But it’s not just the pain that can make surgery difficult. Bandages must stay dry, which means showers are out of the question (with most operations). Schelzncheez, who had a breast augmentation in December 2006, couldn’t shower for a week, and posts on one message board “My poor husband had to wash my hair for a couple of days in the kitchen sink. Perfume and body spray were very good friends.”

The Aftermath.

Emotional
Although Jordan initially faced doubts after her surgery, she now feels more confident and self assured. “I carry myself better; I stand straighter and with better posture.” And that’s the whole point of plastic surgery, believes Dr. Youn. “We’re there to improve self image. And by improving a person’s self image, hopefully we can improve their quality of life.”

But will this be a permanent fix? Dr. Kirsten Moerk, PH.D and body image expert, is doubtful. “It can enhance some of their self images because our society is so focused on breasts—so they will get some positive feedback from at least their male peers. But overall they are looking for a quick fix and they’re just not finding it. They have to look somewhere else.”