New Year, New You: A Fresh Start For Rosh Hashanah

By: Dr.  Dr. Aviva Preminger, MD, MPH, FACS

Rosh Hashanah is a season of reflection and renewal. We take stock of the past year, set intentions for the future, and embrace the opportunity to start afresh. While much of this work is spiritual and emotional, many people see this time as an opportunity to refresh their physical appearance. Just as we strive to align our values and actions, plastic surgery can help align how we feel inside with how we present ourselves to the world.

The High Holidays coincide with the transition from summer to fall. After months of sun exposure, travel, and busy schedules, many people notice changes in their skin, their energy, even their self-confidence. With school starting and routines settling in, the fall becomes a practical moment to schedule treatments or procedures. Patients want to feel their best heading into the holidays, family gatherings, and the year ahead.

For patients who are looking for a quick pick-me-up with little to no downtime, non-surgical treatments are often the first step:

Botox and Dysport: Smooth fine lines and soften expression lines for a more rested look.

Dermal Fillers: Restore volume to cheeks, lips, or tear troughs, helping refresh a tired or hollow appearance.

Laser and Energy-Based Treatments: Improve skin texture, sun spots, and fine lines—especially after a summer of sun.

Medical-Grade Skincare: Customized regimens with retinols, antioxidants, and growth factors can extend and maintain results.

These subtle changes often provide an immediate boost, just in time for the holidays.

For those wishing to make a more significant change, fall is also an ideal season to schedule surgery. Cooler weather makes recovery more comfortable and kids are back in school. Popular procedures include:

Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Removes sagging skin and puffiness around the eyes, restoring a youthful, alert appearance.

Facelift and Neck Lift: Tighten lax skin, smooth jowls, and restore definition to the jawline and neck.

Body Contouring: Procedures like tummy tuck or liposuction can address areas that are resistant to diet and exercise.

Each of these surgeries can have a powerful effect on both appearance and confidence, helping patients feel that their outside matches the strength and vitality they feel inside.

Patients often ask me if they will still “look like themselves” after surgery. Plastic surgery is never about becoming someone else. It’s about enhancing your natural features and helping you feel comfortable in your own skin. During consultation, we discuss each patient’s goals, lifestyle, and a timeline to create a personalized plan. Some start with non-invasive procedures as a stepping stone, while others are ready for surgery right away. The most important thing to remember is that choice comes from a place of self-care.

As we enter the new year, our tradition teaches us that true renewal is about making meaningful, lasting change. Plastic surgery mirrors this process: it doesn’t erase who you are—it reveals the best version of yourself. Whether that means smoothing lines, restoring youthful contours, or addressing something that has bothered you for years, the result is the same: greater confidence, ease, and joy in moving through the world.

This Rosh Hashanah, as you reflect on the past year and prepare for the year ahead, consider the ways—spiritual, emotional, and even physical—that you can feel renewed. From small, non-surgical treatments to transformative procedures, plastic surgery can be part of your journey toward self-confidence and growth.

At Preminger Plastic Surgery, we are committed to educating our patients and providing personalized care tailored to their unique needs. For those considering plastic surgery, we offer guidance every step of the way to help you achieve your aesthetic and wellness goals. Dr. Preminger is a board-certified plastic surgeon with degrees from Harvard, Cornell, and Columbia. For more information or to schedule a consultation, please visit PremingerMD.com or call 212-706-1900.

May this year be filled with health, happiness, and the confidence to step into the best version of yourself. Shanah Tovah u’Metukah! 

Dr. Aviva Preminger is an Ivy League-educated and trained plastic surgeon. She has earned respect and prestige in her field with her extensive credentials. She holds faculty appointments at Columbia University as well as several other fully accredited New York hospitals. Dr. Preminger has expertise in a wide range of cosmetic and reconstructive procedures and has lectured and published extensively. She and her staff are committed to excellence. You can reach Dr. Preminger at (212) 706-1900 or via her website at https://premingermd.com/contact/.