The role of aesthetic surgery in the well-being of human beings has long been documented. To provide exceptional care, facial surgeons must be of the mindset that the object of their attention is an extraordinary being. The human body and the mind that reigns over it meet that criterion. Thus, physicians devoted to enhancing face, body, mind, and soul must be aware of the symbiotic role each of them plays in the care of the whole.

A primary objective of aesthetic facial surgery is to reverse the unwanted signs of aging; however, the responsibility of the surgeon does not end there. Oftentimes a face that appears to be aging prematurely is a reflection of a failing state of well-being elsewhere in the body.

Some scientists believe that the human body is capable of living 120 years. If that is true, then why don’t humans live that long? Perhaps it is because of the things the species does not do to ensure health and well-being, and the external appearances thereof.

From a self-preservation standpoint, it seems that humankind can be divided into three groups.

The elite aesthetic surgeon fits comfortably into group 3. It is your responsibility to see that your patients determine in which of the three groups they currently exist. If they find themselves in group 3 of the health awareness scale, this book will show you (the facial surgeon) how to encourage them to continue along the same pathway and become an even better person, physically, mentally, and spiritually. If the physician (or the patient) is not now in group 3, I hope to show you how to become a living example of how they can follow your lead. Such a mind-set begins with an appreciation of the creative evolution of the species we know as human beings.

■ A Marvelous Creation

For thousands of years humankind has tried to understand life, death, and everything in between. We have come to realize that the human body is a marvelous and beautiful “creation.” We believe that it is “the temple of the soul.” History records that this temple has been worshiped, abused, and mutilated, sometimes knowingly, sometimes unknowingly, oftentimes by others, sometimes by the individual encased within it.

As far back as the history of civilization can be traced, humankind has sought ways to understand who we are, and to become something different from what we are—to evolve. One of the quests of such understanding has been focused on finding ways to defy aging. Expeditions were launched to discover the mythical “fountain of youth.” The search is still on. It could emerge from some genetic scientist’s laboratory.

Perhaps we have made some progress. In the 21st century, the life span of humans who practice “wellness lifestyles” is on the rise. People who adhere to healthy lifestyles are living longer. Conditions that cause us to die are changing. Obesity is the cause of much of the self-induced illness in Western civilizations.

Unlike many of our ancestors who died because of infections, childbirth, and accidents, more and more of us are dying of chronic diseases, many of which are self-inflicted as a result of the “seven deadly sins”: hubristic pride, greed, lust, malicious envy, gluttony, uncontrolled anger, and sloth. These harmful characteristics of human behavior run counter to the “seven virtues”: prudence, justice, temperance (meaning restriction or restraint), courage (or fortitude), faith, hope, and charity (or love). When incorporated into one’s behavior and habits these virtues may actually reduce the harmful aspects of stressful living and promote health and well-being.

Scientists are beginning to realize what James Allen and Dr. Orison Marden knew a century ago—that today many of the conditions that cause people to age and die we bring upon ourselves. The things we do (as well as the things we do not