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 Growing up, you’re taught to believe that beauty is something you are born with. This mentality is among the many that continue to cause stigma around plastic surgery patients and procedures. However, many fail to understand that just as there are many plastic surgery procedures, similarly, there are numerous reasons why one might choose plastic surgery. Although there has been a surge in the popularity of plastic surgery procedures in recent years, the stigma around plastic surgery has yet to fade. Dr. Nicholas Kay is a board-certified plastic surgeon working towards changing the paradigm shift around plastic surgery by empowering his patients and society. Born and raised in Murray, Utah, Dr. Nicholas Kay Howland is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon. Dr Howland is trained in all aspects of plastic surgery, including but not limited to breast augmentation, arm lifts, liposuction, tummy tuck, body contouring after massive weight loss, Brazilian butt lift, breast reconstruction, facial surgery, hand surgery, mommy makeover operations, and even migraine surgery. In addition, he is an involved member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons as well as a board-certified plastic surgeon by the American Board of plastic surgeons Telling someone they need work done is just as wrong as telling them they can’t have work done and that they should accept their body as it is, says Dr Howland. Whether to undergo plastic surgery or not, the choice lies with you. Still, no one should be shamed or ridiculed simply because of their choice, adds Dr Howland. One of the reasons many people raise a concern about plastic surgery is that they do not understand the procedures. To a patient, understanding the various procedures and their effects is paramount, says Dr Howland. Together with his team, he walks his patients through the whole process to give them an accurate picture of what to expect. By doing so, he also helps his patients gain greater control over the various decisions affecting their well-being. Additionally, Dr Howland notes that some patients might have unrealistic expectations. In regards to this, Dr Howland explains to his patients what’s achievable and what is not. As a plastic surgeon, establishing trust with your patient is essential, notes Dr Howland. Once there is a healthy doctor-patient relationship, the patient will be more at ease and open to discuss the procedure. It is sad to see patients feel ashamed for undergoing plastic surgery, says Dr Howland. Plastic surgery should not be used to demean you but rather to empower you. Not only does Dr Howland use state-of-the-art techniques to ensure the process is safe, but he also helps his patients accept themselves and learn to be proud of their new changes. According to Dr Howland, the fight against the stigma associated with plastic surgery is far from over. Unless people change their mindset on plastic surgery and stop attacking those who have had these procedures, only then will the stigma disappear. However, this does not mean he is willing to give up; undeterred, Dr Howland continues to empower his patients. Everyone is unique, and so is every procedure; what works for you might not work for another. This is why it is important to conduct thorough research before undertaking any plastic surgery procedure. It is also important to partner with a board-certified surgeon to ensure the process is safe.