Cosmetic surgery: A comprehensive overview of procedures, costs and risks
The term ‘cosmetic surgery’ refers to surgical procedures that alter a person’s appearance and adapt it to their personal preferences.
The term ‘cosmetic surgery’ encompasses a wide range of surgical procedures designed to alter a person’s physical appearance and bring it into line with their personal expectations. The decision to undergo such a procedure is a significant step that requires thorough information not only about the possibilities, but also about the limitations and risks involved.
This article is intended to provide you with a reliable and comprehensive overview of the field of cosmetic surgery. It explains the key terms, outlines the most common procedures and highlights the crucial factors you should bear in mind as you work towards making a safe and well-informed decision.
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Important note
This article is for information purposes only and is not a substitute for a medical diagnosis or advice. If you are unsure, or if you require a personalised treatment plan, it is essential that you consult a qualified specialist.
What is cosmetic surgery?
Cosmetic surgery, technically referred to as aesthetic surgery, is an elective (voluntary) surgical procedure whose primary aim is to improve or alter a person’s physical appearance for aesthetic reasons. Unlike reconstructive surgery, which restores physical functions or appearance following accidents, illnesses or congenital malformations, cosmetic surgery is generally not based on any medical necessity.
The crucial first step: choosing the right surgeon
By far the most important factor in the safety and success of cosmetic surgery is the qualification and experience of your surgeon. Look out for the title „Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery“. This is a protected professional title in Germany, which entails at least six years’ specialist training following medical school, with in-depth training in all areas of plastic, reconstructive, hand and aesthetic surgery. Only these doctors have undergone comprehensive training in all aspects of aesthetic and reconstructive surgery.
An overview: What types of cosmetic surgery are available?
The procedures can be broadly categorised according to the areas of the body being treated.
Facial surgery
The aim is usually to achieve a more youthful appearance or to harmonise the facial features.
- Eyelid lift (blepharoplasty): Corrects drooping eyelids and bags under the eyes for a more alert look.
- Forehead lift / eyebrow lift: Lifts a sagging forehead and brow area.
- Facelift (face lift): Tightens sagging skin and the underlying tissue for a more youthful contour.
- Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty): Changes the shape and size of the nose.
- Ear correction (otoplasty): Flatten protruding ears or reduce the size of the outer ear.
Breast surgery
This involves changing the size and shape of the female or male breast.
- Breast augmentation (mammoplasty): Usually enlarges the breasts through the use of silicone implants.
- Breast lift (mastopexy): Lifts sagging, drooping breasts back into place.
- Breast reduction (mammoplasty): Reduces the volume of breasts that are too large or heavy.
- Gynecomastia surgery: Corrects enlarged male breasts.
Surgery on the body
These procedures are designed to improve the body’s silhouette.
- Liposuction: Removes stubborn, localised fat deposits.
- Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty): Removes excess skin and fat from the abdomen, often following pregnancy or significant weight loss.
- Buttock shaping (gluteal augmentation): Enlarge or reshape the buttocks using the patient’s own fat (BBL surgery) or implants.
- Upper arm and thigh lifts: Removes sagging skin on the limbs.
Risks and the need for protection
Every operation carries general risks such as impaired wound healing, infections, post-operative bleeding or thrombosis. In addition, there are procedure-specific risks, such as capsular contracture following breast implant surgery, asymmetry or an unsatisfactory aesthetic result.
The costs of treating such complications or of any necessary revision surgery are not usually covered by statutory or private health insurance, as the initial operation was not medically necessary. Depending on the terms of the policy, private insurers may cover certain complications on a case-by-case basis; however, there is by no means any guarantee that the costs will be covered.
These potentially very high consequential costs pose a significant financial risk. Taking out consequential costs insurance before the planned procedure is the only way to protect yourself fully against this risk.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about cosmetic surgery
The costs vary enormously depending on the procedure, the complexity involved and the region. They range from around 2,500 euros for a simple ear correction to over 20,000 euros or more for a comprehensive body lift.
Not usually. Costs are only covered in rare, exceptional cases where a medical necessity can be demonstrated (for example, in the case of breast reduction surgery, where it can be shown that there are significant physical symptoms and a sufficient amount of tissue is to be removed).
Look out for the title „Specialist in Plastic and Aesthetic Surgery“, membership of reputable professional associations (e.g. DGPRÄC, VDÄPC), proven experience in the desired procedure, and a detailed, honest consultation.
Yes. For many problems, particularly those relating to facial ageing, there is a wide range of minimally invasive treatments, such as injections of fillers or muscle relaxants, which can delay or replace the need for surgery.