There are a myriad of reasons why you may elect corrective facial surgery. You might want to correct a problem caused by a birth deformity or accident, change a feature you’ve never liked, or simply improve your overall appearance.

The decision to seek cosmetic facial surgery is a personal one, and chances are it won’t solve all of your life problems.  While many individuals opt for cosmetic facial surgery to improve their appearance, the benefits can run far beyond simply feeling better about yourself.

Improved Mental Health

One of the immediate rewards of cosmetic surgery can be improved self-esteem, which can lead to a number of indirect benefits as well.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, many people who were taking antidepressants prior to surgery found that their mood improved to the point that they were able to get off those medications. A 2006 study by the ASPS found that of 61 patients who were taking antidepressants before a cosmetic procedure, 19 of them were able to get off their medications within six months of undergoing the procedure.  Even the vast majority of those who continued to take medication following their surgery reported an overall improvement in their emotional well-being.

While it’s never a good idea to simply stop taking prescribed medications, if a surgical procedure results in an overall improvement in your mood it may be worth checking with your doctor to evaluate your options for getting off those medications.

Better Sleep

Some procedures can result in more direct health benefits. Along with improving your appearance, rhinoplasty – commonly referred to as a “nose job,” can result in improved breathing that in turn can lead to better sleep. Health issues related to poor sleep can include fatigue, high blood pressure, heart disease and Type 2 diabetes.

Researchers at the University of Illinois conducted a study of 46 patients who underwent rhinoplasty, asking them to rate their nasal breathing both before and after the procedure. Of those, 45 reported an overall improvement in breathing following their surgery.

Lastly, an improved facial appearance can be the perfect motivation to start taking better care of the rest of your body as well. Use that new appearance as the starting point of better eating habits, and build on that with an exercise program.

Even a few minor changes can result in overall improved health that can, in turn, result in increased energy and a better mood. These changes can be the foundation of a new, healthier you.