Aaliyah

Why did you want to have cosmetic surgery?

I never quite felt comfortable with my breasts; they were tubular and they were always my least favourite part of my body. I found that I was constantly trying to hide my body, wearing loose fitting clothes and holding myself in a certain way to disguise my body. It massively affected my moods; I constantly felt down and affected my confidence massively! I spoke to my mother about having a breast enlargement from the age of 14, and she was incredibly supportive, and agreed to help with the research into finding the perfect company to have the procedure with once I was 18.

I now feel comfortable with my breasts

Why do you feel it’s important for people to talk openly about their procedure?

I think it’s important to talk openly about your surgery to share your story with people who are considering having cosmetic surgery, so they know: the reason why you had the procedure done, what to expect before/during/after the procedure and any recommendations/advice that you can share. I think it’s also important for people to talk openly about their procedure, as I believe it would help to clear up people’s misconceptions of cosmetic procedures.

Why is being body confident important to you?

Everyone deserves to feel happy, comfortable and confident in their own skin. Being happy and confident with your body can positively impact so many areas of your life! It can help you to express yourself better, be more confident at work, and when meeting new people. There are so many reasons why body confidence is one of the most important things you can have!

MYA also have such a fantastic support network of patients

What do you think about MYA only using real patients in all of their campaigns?

I think it’s excellent that MYA only uses real patients in their campaigns! I think it’s good to see a range of normal people, men and women that have undergone various procedures for a variety of different reasons. It is refreshing to see real people with authentic stories, as opposed to glossy, glamourised representations of cosmetic surgeries results. I think it is fantastic that MYA care about and account for the entire experience of their patients – from consultation to aftercare.

Such an amazing day with the MYA team

What do you think people’s biggest misconception is for the people that have cosmetic surgery?

I find one major misconception about those that undergo cosmetic surgery is the reason behind their decision. I have had a lot of comments in the past about how it was done for attention, when in reality that could not be further from the truth! I have also seen many reports from various media outlets portraying cosmetic surgery in a negative light, without taking into account all the positive, personal impact it can have on people’s lives.

What do you think is important for people to understand about the men and women that choose to have cosmetic surgery?

It is important for people to be aware of the whole process and deeply personal experiences that individuals go through prior to choosing to undergo any cosmetic procedure. It is not a lightly taken decision. I think if more people knew and understood this element, their understanding and compassion for the variety of decisions behind men’s and women’s choices to have cosmetic surgery.

I'm so happy with the shape now

What are your top 3 tips you would give to someone wanting to have cosmetic surgery?

1) Research the procedure – It’s important to familiarise yourself with the procedure you are thinking of having. Speak to people that have had the procedure, get to know the ins and outs, the healing process, what to expect from your procedure.

2) Trust your Surgeon/Patient Coordinators advice - They have a lot of experience in this field and will only give you advice that’s there to help you, not hinder! It’s important to take in all the information provided, and always follow instructions given for things such as after care.

3) Take time to consider whether it is the right decision for you – Cosmetic surgery is a big decision to make, and you need to be absolutely sure before going ahead with anything.

Can you talk about the MYA Community and why it’s important to have someone to talk to?

MYA also have such a fantastic support network of patients, who are always there to provide first-hand advice, emotional support, tips of what to do before/after surgery, and a range of other things that form a truly brilliant community to be a part of. It is so important to have someone to talk to if you are considering having a cosmetic procedure because it is a huge decision to make, and you should be 100% sure that it is the right decision for you. The MYA Forum is a great support system, providing a place for everyone to connect with people who are going through/have gone through similar processes. This safe, non-judgemental space to talk about cosmetic surgery openly and honestly was invaluable to me, and I know it is to many others at all stages of their journey.

Take time out to think about your decision, don’t rush into anything!

Why does representation matter?

Representation is vital, especially when combating the negative attitudes, ignorant judgements, and damaging stereotypes that are often presented by the media as the reality of cosmetic surgery. It is far from it! I want to be a voice within the MYA community and wider society precisely because of this; real people and their stories should be heard. If the normal people who choose to do something for themselves, their self-confidence, and own personal happiness are given the opportunity to tell their stories, hopefully this new, authentic representation of cosmetic surgery shall combat the negative, superficial images that are so prominent right now.

What advice would you give to someone looking into having the same procedure as you?

Do lots of research about the procedure you are thinking about, it’s good to be informed. Take time out to think about your decision, don’t rush into anything! It’s such a big decision to make, and you need to make sure you’re making the right one for you. Speak to other people that have had the procedure, they were in your shoes once upon a time and can often provide honest advice on the procedure, and how to handle the emotional side of things.

Listen to your Patient Coordinator/Surgeon! They have the knowledge and understanding of the procedure and they provide amazing advice and support during your procedure process. And lastly, choose MYA!

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