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Understanding What Plastic Surgery Can and Cannot Do

By: Dr. Lawrence Iteld

9/14/2026

If you’re considering plastic surgery, you’ve probably spent time looking at before-and-after photos, reading patient reviews, and imagining what you hope to achieve. That’s a natural part of the process. During your consultation, one of the most important conversations we’ll have isn’t just about the procedure itself; it’s about your goals and whether surgery can realistically help you achieve them.

In my experience, patients are happiest with their results when they understand both the possibilities and the limitations of plastic surgery. The most satisfying outcomes are those that look natural and reflect your individual goals.

The goal is to help you look like the best version of yourself while maintaining a natural appearance.

Every Patient Is Different

No two patients begin in the same place. Your anatomy, skin quality, genetics, lifestyle, and healing all influence what can be achieved. That’s why two people who undergo the same procedure may have different results.

During your consultation, I will review these factors with you and explain what I believe is possible based on your unique situation. Rather than trying to recreate someone else’s appearance, we focus on improvements that complement your features and help you look refreshed, balanced, and confident.

Many patients bring in photos they’ve found online, and these can be helpful for understanding the look you prefer. However, it’s important to remember that many of the images we see today have been enhanced with filters, editing, professional lighting, or even artificial intelligence.

Plastic surgery works with your anatomy, not a digitally altered image. My job is to help you achieve the best possible result for you, not to make you look like someone else.

Recovery Is Part of Your Result

The surgery itself is only one part of your journey. Healing takes time, and it is normal to experience swelling, bruising, and gradual changes as your body recovers.

Our Smart Recovery™ protocol is designed to support a smoother, more comfortable recovery and help you return to normal activities as safely and efficiently as possible. I also make sure you understand what to expect before surgery, including how your results will continue to develop over time. When you know what the recovery process involves, you are more likely to feel comfortable and confident throughout the experience.

Sometimes the Best Recommendation Is to Wait

Not every concern requires surgery, and not every patient is ready for or needs a procedure.

There are times when nonsurgical treatments may be a better option, when waiting will produce a better outcome, or when surgery simply isn’t the right answer. My responsibility is to recommend what I believe is best for you, even if that means recommending against a procedure.

Those conversations are just as important as discussing surgery itself because my goal is always to help you make the right decision, not simply perform an operation.

Honest Communication Leads to Better Results

Plastic surgery is a partnership between us. It begins with an honest conversation about your goals, your concerns, and what you hope to accomplish.

When expectations are realistic, communication is open, and the treatment plan is designed specifically for you, the results are more likely to align with what you hoped to achieve.

Time to Take the Next Step

If you’re considering plastic surgery, the first step is having an honest conversation about your goals. Together, we’ll discuss what’s possible, what to expect, and whether surgery is the right choice for you. When expectations are realistic and the treatment plan is personalized, the results are often both beautiful and rewarding.

Please contact one of my patient coordinators at [email protected], call 312.757.45 05, use our convenient online contact form  to schedule a consultation.

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* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.