Now, I’m There: My Life is still not a 10X Mirror

When I started my plastic surgery practice, here, in California, I was in my early 30’s. I remember patients expressing concerns about lines, bumps and skin irregularities while applying their make-up or even just cleansing their faces. But, here’s the kicker………and, they told me….they were using their 10X mirror. The lighting in my office has never been kind and very bright as I do need to see what I’m evaluating and doing. I offer that disclaimer to patients while I pull out a regular mirror and one by one go through their concerns. Then, I remind them of the 10X mirror and how no one but themselves see things magnified. Taking the time to explain things not only helped my patient but also created a great bond between people who to this day I have the pleasure of seeing in my office.

Let’s jump a few decades to now. I use a 10X mirror to apply my makeup. Now, I get them. I understand the detailed topography of my face and neck. Does it change what I advised 20 + years ago? No. My skin care is the same. My self-acceptance is the same. The only difference is that I do apply my makeup way better with that 10X mirror. I get my 10X patients as I call them and know how to address their concerns. It is specific for each person.

My first community outreach talk in the early millennium was at a local hospital. I purchased small mirrors from a craft store and taped my card on the back. The audience was to look in the mirror for one minute. After a minute, I shared my observation. Most patients furrowed their brows picking apart their look. Not one person smiled. “Okay, everyone. I know I’m supposed to talk about the wonders of plastic surgery, but here is how I am going to start this talk and explain the exercise we completed. I watched you look into the mirror.” I then demonstrated some of the facial expressions from concern to disdain.  “Not one of you smiled. Not one person. Please do me a favor. From now on, when you look into the mirror, please smile. Even if it’s the first look in the morning. Not only will you see how much better you look with a smile, but you will also honor yourself and your soul.”

I’m all for mirrors and even a magnified mirror. However, in the big picture of health, wellness and beauty, the final element comes from you and your attitude towards yourself. Eventually, I will sprinkle in some technical cosmetic pearls but beauty is about health and wellness. Please smile in the mirror. Until next time…………….