With millions of Americans going under the knife every year, it’s no surprise that medical researchers are eager to quantify the physical and psychological effects of facelifts, Mommy makeovers and other procedures performed by Miami plastic surgeons. One recent study published by JAMA Facial Plastic Surgery has gained national news coverage, and has many people asking what plastic surgery can do for them. The research focused on facial procedures including eyelid surgery and browlifts, but did not include facelifts or dermal fillers and other injectables.

According to reports, a group of 50 participants were asked to look at photographs of 49 patients that were either taken before or after they underwent these procedures and estimate their age. No one saw images of the same person pre- and post-op.

On average, the study participants said the individuals who had gotten work done looked three years younger than their actual age.  The New York Daily News contrasted this figure with a 2012 study regarding facelifts and necklifts that revealed a 9-year difference in perceived age.

While some news outlets cast the three-year gap in a negative light, questioning whether people would consider going under the knife for these results, one woman interviewed by NBC’s TODAY made a point that anyone considering plastic surgery should keep in mind:

“I wouldn’t do it to look three years younger, but I would do it if it made me feel better about myself,” she said.

The best way to ensure your plastic surgery is a success is to go into the process with realistic expectations. Dr. Christopher Craft is a board-certified Miami plastic surgeon who can discuss your options and give you a clear sense of what procedures like a nosejob, breast augmentation and Brazilian butt lift can do for you.