Dr. Robert J. Brueck regularly blogs about matters of health, beauty and cosmetic surgery. In this message he comments on a recently received testimonial.

I have often written about the effect of cosmetic surgery on how a person feels about himself or herself. I think it is important to keep that in mind because it is all too easy to disparage cosmetic surgery as an act of selfish indulgence. Yet, no one would speak that way about emotional therapy, would they?

I know from experience that 99% of the people who come to me for free consultation want to improve their appearance in order to overcome a lack of confidence, whether it is the way they look, the way they feel with friends, their ability to compete at work.

It is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do to hear from people for whom cosmetic surgery has been life-changing.

The other day, I received this poem from a patient. It says more eloquently than I can what cosmetic surgery is about. Please read it.

"Dr. Brueck:

I'm sure you receive so many gestures of saying "thank you" everyday.
A card, a smile, a homemade cake, each patient in own special way.

In my prior life, its words I'd use to express how a client would feel.
Trying to do it about myself makes it seem a little surreal.

My friends would ask if I was ok. I looked so stressed and tired
I couldn't explain the life I lead needs a sign that says, "Stress Required".

I can walk miles; eat just right, value life as I was taught to do.
But no matter how I tried, that stressed look kept bulging through.

The first time I came to see you, I had no idea I would find.
A very kind and generous man, who would help me, leave all that behind.

Thank you seems so silly, no short and not very clear.
But you have given me the gift. I don't shun at the lady in the mirror."
- J.T.

Incidentally, this letter and others, including videos, are posted to the testimonial page on my web site as well. Please visit when you have a chance. Thank you.