Plastic Disasters

Tummy tuck. Nose job. Lipo. Kate Davis and David Heilbroner's HBO-aired documentary Plastic Disasters details the horror stories of three patients who underwent cosmetic surgery that went terribly wrong: Lucille, whose facelift resulted in sagging skin and, she says, trouble breathing and swallowing; Mona, whose routine liposuction led to a perforated bowel, a serious infection, and ultimately the amputation of both her legs; and Tony, whose nose job damaged his nasal bones. These cautionary tales—told through sometimes graphic operating-room footage, home movies, still photos, and interviews with patients, lawyers, and doctors—act as warnings in an age in which consumers are endlessly told how easy and safe it is to “remake” themselves. By emphasizing that any medical procedure is potentially dangerous, the film reminds viewers to consider the risks carefully before opting for elective surgery, while also demonstrating how difficult it is to prove legal culpability in the event of a mistake (the filmmakers stress the need to choose a surgeon carefully). The subject matter and unvarnished approach make Plastic Disasters hard to watch at times, and it's undoubtedly one-sided (Lucille's ailments are presented as fact, even though there is some suggestion they might be psychosomatic), but ultimately this is both an informative and poignant look at a serious consumer health issue. Recommended. Aud: C, P. (F. Swietek)