There is very little in this life that comes without risk, and the dangers of plastic surgery are a prime example of this. Most of us have been reminded by elderly relatives that our lives could be cut short any day simply by crossing the street; this adage is usually quoted to remind us to live each day to the full, and to do the things that will bring fulfilment to our lives, despite the many risks inherent. While it is true that the sensible among us put the inevitable risks of daily life to the back of our minds in order, simply, to stay sane, a balanced life is perhaps knowing risks to pay attention to, and which to ignore.

There is little doubt that the dangers of plastic surgery are multiple, but its popularity nevertheless continues unabated. These dangers, clearly, are for many people acceptable one, and plastic surgery seems to be something that offers potential benefits significant enough to plough on regardless.

But there is also an element in the human condition that clings to the tenet that ignorance is bliss, that it won't happen to me anyway, and perhaps there is something to be said for that belief. Constantly thinking of the possible dangers of life will only immobilise us with fear. We would never take a chance on anything; never seek to better ourselves, or our world. And while plastic surgery has its detractors as well as its advocates, surely even those opposed to the surgical alteration of a healthy body can applaud the willingness to take a leap of faith towards something believed in?

They say that knowledge is power, and the making of an informed decision is only possible with all the facts to hand. Perhaps you will choose to continue on your desired route despite understanding the risks and dangers of plastic surgery, but you will be making a decision based on something real, rather than the foolhardy belief that things cannot go wrong.

Jeff Lakie is the founder of Plastic Surgery Resources a website providing information on cosmetic surgery.