If an individual is unhappy with their personal appearance or struggles with a certain ailment, they may consider taking appropriate action. This can include adopting a healthier diet to lose weight or a vigorous exercise regime at the gym for increasing muscle tone.

However, another alternative is to undergo cosmetic surgery, a measure usually reserved for physical concerns that cannot be altered by lifestyle choices alone.

According to the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons [BAAPS], a total of 43,172 procedures were carried out in 2012. Although this was only an increase of 0.2 per cent compared to the previous year, anti-ageing treatments such as eyelid surgery and face lifts saw double-digit increases.

It is important to understand the pros and cons of cosmetic surgery before committing to a procedure or any form of treatment.

Undergoing cosmetic surgery can dramatically increase a person's confidence if they have low self-esteem or are incredibly image-conscious. If an individual is unhappy with their looks, it can have a dramatic and detrimental effect on their everyday life, which can include working, socialising and dating.

Cosmetic surgery can restore some much needed self-assurance and belief. Obsessing over one’s appearance may indicate a mental health issue, so it is important to discuss the issue with a doctor.

Even though the word ‘cosmetic’ is related to improving appearance, undergoing surgery can also have a range of health benefits for various conditions. 

Women who suffer from chronic back pain are often advised to have breast reduction surgery, a nose job can fixed a deviated septum or problems associated with sinus infections, while overweight individuals may require bariatric surgery in order to lose weight.

As with any type of procedure, there are several risks and potential complications associated with cosmetic surgery. Side effects include infection, scarring, nerve damage, reaction to anaesthesia, haemorrhaging and post-procedure pain.

There have been several high-profile media reports of botched operations where the victim has suffered from a lack of proper care and attention, both during the procedure and afterwards. This can mean further surgical procedures are required.

In the event of a non-fulfilment of duty, medical negligence solicitors are able to process cosmetic surgery compensation claims.

As the vast majority of cosmetic surgery procedures are considered to be undertaken at one’s discretion, neither medical insurance nor the NHS cover the costs. What’s more, procedures tend to be extremely expensive and are generally considered an unnecessary outlay.

In the UK, you can expect to pay £1,500 for eyelid surgery, £3,400 for breast augmentation, £5,000 for a tummy tuck, while a facelift costs nearer £5,500. With time off work required for recovery, this could also result in a considerable loss of money.

Even if you dream of altering your appearance it is important to keep expectations to a minimum, as the desired results cannot always be guaranteed. There is no way of knowing what the final outcome will be despite the surgeon doing his or her best to reassure the patient.