From the earliest times, mankind has been known for egotism and the obsession to improve his/her appearance. Cleopatra allegedly bathed in goat milk to keep her skin milky soft. The father of narcissism, Narcissus, according to Greek mythology, fell in love with his own water reflection and eventually died when he was unable to leave his mirror image.

That ancient fixation with beauty and one's physical appearance has not changed through the eons. On the contrary, in today's fast-paced, quick fix society where immediate gratification is the norm, cosmetic surgery is the fastest growing trade in the world of beauty and glamour. Face and neck lifts, breast implants or reductions, body sculpting and liposuction have become as common as shopping list items for those who can afford it. For affordable plastic surgery, Costa Rica is the place to go for that coveted tuck a pull.

Costa Rica is not only renowned for its exquisite beauty as a major tourist Mecca, but also for its affordable cosmetic trade. Clients have a huge choice of plastic surgeons and practices where they can have all their facial and physical imperfections fixed. Its remoteness also gives them the privacy and secrecy which they desire. Many people are still ashamed to admit that they went for a tug or a pull and prefer to attribute their new youthful appearance to a relaxed holiday.

Potential clients have a wide variety of options regarding cosmetic surgeons, facilities and procedures offered in Costa Rica. Whether you only want some botox injections to restore a youthful smile, or comprehensive surgery to get rid of excessive body fat and flab, they have it all - and in tranquil, exotic settings to boot!

Unfortunately, there is also a serious downside to this popular beautification trend. Horror stories of people whose procedures went wrong and left them horribly scarred or even disfigured, are rife in the trade. It is thus imperative to make sure that one consults a highly qualified and board certified surgeon who has a good tracking record.

As with any medical procedure, there are always risks involved. All people are unique and react and recover differently from medical procedures. Some people's skin heals quickly, while others' are prone to scarring.

Not all cosmetic improvements are done out of vanity or to improve one's self-image. For cancer patients and victims of vehicle or fire accidents, reconstructive surgery is part of their medical treatment and essential for their healing and recovery in order to lead a normal life again. Skin grafts, breast reconstruction and facial implants are part of the essential medical procedures in above-mentioned cases. In most cases, their medical funds pay for these essential reconstructive procedures.

The psychological benefits of cosmetic improvements are immense. For people who suffer from a low self-esteem due to facial or physical imperfections, it is a life-changing experience. Whether you want a smaller nose or waist, fuller lips or more prominent buttocks, Costa Rica is a perfect choice for those who want a more affordable and in cognito option when they want some cosmetic work done - in a fantastic holiday destination!