Dramatic media portrayals often offer glimpses of science that are hard to believe. This applies to the medical field of plastic surgery as well. Many myths surround this specialty, and people know few facts about it. Plastic surgery is a centuries-old medical specialty like many specialties otherwise taken seriously by people. The surgeons who perform these procedures are highly trained experts.


The word “plastic” comes from Greek plastikē meaning “reshaping” or the art of modeling malleable flesh. The first such surgeries were done in India in 800 BC. Physician Sushruta made tremendous contributions to plastic and cataract surgery. An ancient method of nose reconstruction became famous worldwide resulting in works of Sushruta, the Father of Plastic Surgery, being translated into Arabic, which reached Europe. British physicians traveled to India to study rhinoplasty (plastic surgery on the nose) for many years. One such surgeon, Joseph Constantine Carpue performed the first major plastic surgery in Europe in 1815.

Plastic surgery is a surgical specialty for restoration, reconstruction, or alteration of the human body. There are two main categories: reconstructive and cosmetic. Reconstructive surgery reconstructs a part of the body. It also improves a body part’s function. Cosmetic surgery improves the appearance of a body part.

One of the myths that damages the reputation of the field is that only vain people undergo plastic surgery. However, many require reconstructive and cosmetic surgery for health reasons. Taking steps for better health doesn’t make an individual shallow. Some require surgery for reconstructive reasons like birth defects for aesthetic as well as functional purposes. In addition, fixing problems like a cleft palate helps people feel the best about themselves and boosts their self-confidence for a greater overall quality of life. The philosophy behind the practice of plastic surgery is repair, functionality and good results after the procedure, not just vanity.

What is the author’s intended meaning of the phrase “dramatic media portrayal” in the passage?
Responses
A Methods popularly used in all media Methods popularly used in all media
B Certain styles that are not for research Certain styles that are not for research
C Words or descriptions that are harmful Words or descriptions that are harmful
D Information that may not be correct

1 answer

The author's intended meaning of the phrase "dramatic media portrayal" in the passage is best captured by option D: "Information that may not be correct." The passage discusses how media representations can distort the perception of plastic surgery, implying that they may not accurately reflect the reality of the field or the reasons individuals seek these procedures.