The Five Most Common Myths Patients Believe (That Surgeons Wish They Didn’t)
Plastic surgery is more transparent today than ever before, yet misconceptions continue to circulate through social media, online forums, and word-of-mouth stories. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I see how these myths can create unnecessary fear, unrealistic expectations, and even delay patients from getting the right procedure for their goals.
These are the five most common myths patients believe – and the truths surgeons really want them to know.
Myth 1: “Plastic surgery results look fake.”
Thanks to decades of Hollywood stereotypes, many people still assume plastic surgery equals an overdone or artificial look. In reality, modern aesthetic surgery is grounded in subtlety, proportion, and anatomical balance.
The truth:
Natural results come from customized surgical planning, refined techniques, and a deep understanding of facial and body aesthetics. A skilled surgeon enhances your existing features, not replaces them.
Here’s what Dr. Rottman has to say about that:
“In my practice, the goal is always to achieve natural-looking enhancements that complement your unique features,” says Dr. Steven J. Rottman. “Modern techniques allow us to focus on subtlety and balance, so patients leave looking refreshed and like the best version of themselves—not ‘done’ or artificial.”
Myth 2: “Recovery isn’t that bad — I’ll be back to normal in a couple of days.”
Social media highlight reels make recovery look effortless. Patients often expect to bounce back in 48 hours, leading to frustration when real healing takes longer.
The truth:
Every procedure has a predictable recovery timeline. Swelling, bruising, and fatigue are normal parts of the healing process. Optimizing results requires rest, adherence to postoperative instructions, and allowing the body enough time to recover properly.
In fact, here is Dr. Rottman’s thoughts on the subject:
“Recovery is a critical part of the process, and rushing it can compromise your results,” explains Dr. Rottman. “I always emphasize to my patients that allowing proper time for healing—often several weeks of rest and following post-op guidelines—ensures the beautiful, long-lasting outcome they deserve.”
Myth 3: “Plastic surgery can fix anything.”
While transformative, surgery is not magic. Some patients come in believing a single procedure will solve every aesthetic concern, or that a surgeon can recreate a filtered photo exactly.
The truth:
Plastic surgery works within the framework of your anatomy. The best outcomes happen when patients understand what is possible, what isn’t, and how to align expectations with the natural limitations of soft tissue, bone structure, and skin quality.
Myth 4: “If a surgeon is board-certified, all certifications are the same.”
This misconception is especially risky. Many practitioners market themselves as “cosmetic surgeons” without accredited surgical training, and patients assume the credential is equivalent.
The truth:
Only board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) guarantees rigorous surgical training, competency, and safety standards. When evaluating a surgeon, training matters just as much as artistic skill.
Myth 5: “Once I choose a procedure, the technique is the same no matter who performs it.”
Two surgeons can perform the same procedure, yet the outcomes may look dramatically different. Technique, precision, experience, and artistic judgment vary widely.
The truth:
Plastic surgery is both science and art. The surgeon’s approach to incision placement, tissue handling, suturing, shaping, and aesthetic vision directly influences your results. Choosing the right surgeon is as important as choosing the procedure itself.
Final Thoughts
The best surgical experiences happen when patients are informed, prepared, and partnered with a surgeon they trust. By replacing myths with facts, you empower yourself to make confident decisions and achieve the results you’ve envisioned.
“Educating patients and debunking these myths is one of the most important parts of my job,” reflects Dr. Steven J. Rottman. “When patients come in informed and realistic, we partner together for truly life-changing, natural results.”
If you’re considering a procedure and want clear, honest guidance, our team is here to help you refine, restore, and reimagine your confidence. Please call our office at 410.321.6868 to schedule your consultation.