The idea of self-performed plastic surgery makes me cringe. It doesn't take much thought to figure out why this is a terrible idea; contamination, infection, imprecise applications, the list goes on and on. Recently a few stories have surfaced about people purchasing products online and performing plastic surgery on themselves; the results have been dangerous and devastating.

The most recent story is about Mary, a 54 year old woman with a public career who sought to plump her lips and fill a facial scar. Mary had visited a plastic surgeon for this procedure once before. She loved the results and thought of it as a simple and relatively painless procedure. After briefly searching the internet, she purchased silicone for only ten dollars and set off to perform the procedure on her own.

Instead of using medical-grade silicone, Mary injected her face with personal lubricant. Her failed attempt to save money, resulted in a massive infection, painful swelling and unattractive scaring. Instead of saving a few dollars, Mary now has the enormous expense of having it removed and will require some reconstruction to repair the damage she has caused.

Nobody should jeopardize their health by attempting a self performed surgical procedure. If you're interested in plastic surgery but concerned about cost, take the time to talk to a plastic surgeon; many have payment plans available, or are willing to offer discounted services for first time patients or referrals.