[Indications and significance of esthetic plastic surgery]

The motivations of aesthetic operations for achievement of a more harmonious appearance or for treatment of the external signs of aging are, besides purely aesthetic reasons, the desire to increase professional opportunities, to better adapt to the social environment or to improve affective relations. Aesthetic surgery has therefore a mainly psychic indication: the aim is to improve the self-esteem, which, on the other hand facilitates the social integration. A responsible execution of aesthetic surgery requires, besides a basic knowledge of psychology and sensitivity for aesthetics, a complete training in general surgery and in reconstructive plastic surgery as well as a continuing education in the aesthetic field. It is therefore not advisable to divide the specialty of plastic surgery. The advancements in both fields have a mutual positive influence and both have to consider function as well as appearance, although with different emphasis. The adequate treatment of eventual complications also requires a basic knowledge in both fields. The intensive advertising made by commercial, so-called "cosmetic clinics" is in contrast to the plastic surgeon's possibilities of public relations, restricted for ethical considerations. Undoubtedly it is not sufficient, at least on a medium-term basis, to achieve better results--in benefit of the patient--unless this is also made known to the public. The necessary information of the public should therefore be taken over or be directed by the National Societies of Plastic Surgery, on an anonymous basis.