Author: Zex PRwire

Every Tax Preparer Is a Financial Institution Under Federal Law. Many Have No Written Security Plan.

The IRS is in the final week of its summer campaign telling tax professionals to write one. Industry data says the firms it applies to are mostly two-person shops.

KANSAS CITY, Mo., Aug 07, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — If you prepare tax returns for a living, federal law counts you as a financial institution. Same category as a bank. That classification carries an obligation most small firm owners have never heard of: a written information security plan (WISP), on paper, kept current.

The Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act is what does it. Under GLBA, tax and accounting professionals are considered financial institutions and must implement a data security plan, which puts them under the Federal Trade Commission’s Safeguards Rule. The IRS said it plainly in July 2025: tax professionals are legally required to have a written, accessible plan, and should review, test and update it regularly.

The agency is in the middle of saying it again. On July 7 the IRS and its Security Summit partners launched “Protect Your Clients; Protect Yourself,” a five-week campaign for tax professionals now in its final week. The same guidance is being delivered in person at the 2026 IRS Nationwide Tax Forums, which continue in New York City Aug. 18-20, Orlando Sept. 1-3, and San Diego Sept. 15-17.

“Most preparers I talk to have no idea this applies to them, and I don’t blame them one bit. Nobody ever told them,” said Sam Sapp of Lockbaud. “Many of these smaller firms would be lucky to have a cybersecurity plan at all, let alone a written one.”

The size of the gap follows from the shape of the profession. Research published in The CPA Journal in January, drawn from IRS preparer and e-filing datasets for the 2024 tax year, found 89% of all e-filers handle fewer than 1,000 filings a year, and 48% of preparers matched to a firm are solo practitioners. Intuit, H&R Block, and TaxHawk together account for only about a third of e-filing submissions. Most of the rest of the profession is small businesses.

Those firms hold exactly what an attacker wants. Social Security numbers, bank account details, income records, and dependent information for every client on the list, usually going back years.

The Safeguards Rule doesn’t ask for a security operations center. The FTC asks firms to designate someone to coordinate the program, identify and assess risks to customer information, and create, implement and regularly test safeguards. The IRS publishes Publication 5708, a 28-page template built for smaller practices, and Publication 4557 covers safeguarding taxpayer data more broadly. Both are free.

A plan on paper isn’t really the point either. The protections have to actually be in place, and that’s where a lot of firms get caught. They assume somebody else has it handled, usually the tax software vendor or whoever set the office up. Those companies secure their own platform. They don’t secure your email, your laptops, your backups, or the person who clicks the wrong link.

Somebody has to own that, and in a two-person office nobody has room for one more job. That’s why these plans get started in February and forgotten by March. A lot of firms hand it off instead, which is a good chunk of what IT support for accounting firms means in practice. And it’s not just tax firms. Any small business sitting on customer data runs into the same thing, which is most of why outsourced IT for small businesses is a category at all.

Two things any tax or accounting firm can check this week:

• Find out whether your firm has a written plan at all, and who is named in it as responsible. If nobody is named, you don’t have one.
• Ask your tax software vendor and your IT provider, in writing, exactly what each one secures. The gap between those two answers is yours to cover.

“That’s what we try to help with, and honestly what we want to make a push to help more with,” Sapp said. “If a firm gets one page written and puts a name on it, that’s a real win. We’ll take it.”

Through Oct. 31, Lockbaud is offering a free written information security plan review to tax and accounting firms. Lockbaud will read an existing plan against Publication 5708 and the Safeguards Rule and say plainly what’s missing, or confirm a firm doesn’t have one yet. Requests go to connect@lockbaud.com or 816-208-2888.

About Lockbaud

Lockbaud is a managed IT and cybersecurity provider based in Kansas City, Missouri, serving small and mid-sized businesses across the United States. Lockbaud works most often with accounting firms, law firms, and chambers of commerce, and backs its work with same-day support, zero-downtime onboarding, and a money-back guarantee. Founded and owned by Sam Sapp. More at lockbaud.com.

Media Contact

Sam Sapp, Lockbaud

lockbaud.com

Full release with sources: https://lockbaud.com/newsroom/tax-preparer-security-plan-requirement/

The Truth No One Wants to Talk About

England, U.K, Aug 07, 2026 — In 2026, the Social Security Cost-of-Living Adjustment (COLA) increased by 2.8%, raising the average monthly benefit for retirees by approximately $56. However, because the prices of essential expenses such as housing, healthcare, and food have generally risen by more than 2.8%, the real purchasing power of many retirees who rely on Social Security continues to decline.

At the same time, the Social Security system is facing long-term financial pressure. It is projected that by 2034, the Social Security trust fund may be able to pay only about 83% of scheduled benefits. For a growing number of retirees, Social Security remains an important source of income, but relying on benefits alone is becoming increasingly insufficient to meet retirement living expenses.

A Supplementary Source of Income

In recent years, Social Security benefits have consistently lagged behind the rising cost of living, prompting some retirees to seek additional sources of income. Compared with traditional investments or part-time work, Bitcoin mining traditionally required expensive mining equipment, ongoing electricity and maintenance costs, and specialized technical knowledge.

Cloud mining changes this model. Instead of purchasing and operating mining equipment, users simply purchase cloud computing power to participate in Bitcoin mining. The platform is responsible for equipment operation and maintenance, while users automatically receive daily Bitcoin mining rewards. As a result, cloud mining has gradually attracted the attention of retirees looking for supplementary income.

ASDeFi: A Platform Designed for Convenient Cloud Mining

Founded in 2020, ASDeFi is a Bitcoin cloud mining platform with more than 5 million users worldwide. It operates physical data centers that manage over 11 million TH of computing power.

The platform maintains a 99% uptime, supported by real-time monitoring and a professional maintenance team. It is also committed to using 90% renewable energy, providing users with a stable, efficient, and more environmentally friendly cloud mining service.

How It Works: Four Simple Steps

1. Register an Account https://asdefi.com

New users receive a $15 welcome bonus, which can be used to experience the platform’s cloud mining services.

2. Complete Your Account Setup

Log in to your account dashboard, deposit cryptocurrency, and link your cryptocurrency wallet address to receive mining rewards.

3. Purchase a Mining Contract

Go to the Contracts page and purchase the $15 mining contract. You can also choose other mining contracts that match your budget and investment plan.

4. Start Mining and Withdraw Your Earnings

Once the contract is purchased, the platform automatically allocates computing power and the cloud mining contract begins running immediately. You can monitor your mining rewards in real time on your mobile phone and withdraw your earnings at any time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can retirees participate?

Yes. As long as you meet the platform’s requirements and have a cryptocurrency account, you can choose a cloud mining contract that suits your financial situation.

Do I need to purchase mining equipment?

No. The platform is responsible for mining farm construction, equipment maintenance, computing power management, and overall system operation.

Which cryptocurrencies are supported?

The platform currently supports more than a dozen mainstream cryptocurrencies, including BTC, ETH, XRP, DOGE, SOL, BNB, and USDT.

Conclusion

Although the 2026 Social Security COLA increased by 2.8%, many retirees continue to face rising living costs for healthcare, housing, and food. Combined with the long-term financial challenges facing the Social Security system, relying solely on Social Security benefits is becoming increasingly difficult for many retirees.

As a result, some retirees with available capital are turning to ASDeFi Bitcoin cloud mining as a supplementary option for generating passive income—without the need to purchase mining hardware or possess specialized technical knowledge.

For more information, visit:https://asdefi.com

Download the App

Kentucky, USA, Aug 07, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — After spending decades caring for patients in emergency departments, retired physician Dr. James Blake believes one of today’s biggest health challenges is not always visible. Chronic stress, burnout, and the loss of personal purpose are affecting millions of people across every profession and stage of life.

Drawing on lessons from a career in emergency medicine, his experience as a former Olympic cyclist, and years of martial arts training, Dr. Blake is encouraging people to adopt simple daily habits that build resilience before life’s biggest challenges arrive.

“People often think resilience appears when you need it,” said Dr. Blake. “In reality, you build it every single day through discipline, perseverance, and the willingness to keep moving forward.”

According to the American Psychological Association, nearly eight in ten adults report experiencing stress that affects their physical or mental health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also reports that more than one in five U.S. adults experience symptoms of anxiety or depression in a given year. Meanwhile, physician organizations continue to report burnout affecting more than 40% of doctors, highlighting that stress reaches even highly trained professionals.

Dr. Blake believes these challenges cannot always be solved overnight, but individuals can begin improving their own resilience with consistent daily habits.

“We all have multiple failures within our lives and careers,” he said. “It is how we learn from them, redirect our goals, and pursue them again with constant dedication.”

Throughout his career, Dr. Blake learned that success was rarely defined by one major accomplishment. Instead, it came from small actions repeated consistently over time.

Before entering medicine, Dr. Blake competed as an Olympic cyclist, where every race depended on months of preparation. Later, earning a black belt in martial arts reinforced another lesson that stayed with him throughout his medical career.

“Make goals and pursue them in a positive way to complete the task,” he said. “You don’t have to solve everything today. Just take the next right step.”

Dr. Blake also credits teamwork as one of the defining strengths of his years in emergency medicine.

“I absolutely loved the job that I did,” he said. “We touched many people’s lives, and I built strong bonds with all the staff members I worked with.”

He believes the same principle applies outside hospitals. Families, workplaces, schools, and communities become stronger when people support one another instead of trying to carry every burden alone.

Recent research continues to support that idea. Studies have found that people with strong social connections tend to experience lower stress levels, better mental well-being, and improved long-term health outcomes compared with those who feel isolated.

Faith has also remained central to Dr. Blake’s approach to life.

“God has guided me through every season,” he said. “Faith gives me perspective when life becomes difficult.”

Today, Dr. Blake encourages people to spend less time searching for quick solutions and more time building consistent habits.

“Daily reevaluation of goals is important,” he said. “You have to constantly adjust and improve.”

He also believes people should not fear setbacks.

“Perseverance and hard work and dedication matter,” Dr. Blake said. “Success isn’t about never failing. It’s about continuing to move forward.”

What You Can Do Today

Dr. Blake encourages individuals to begin strengthening their own resilience by taking small, practical steps each day:

• Write down one meaningful goal every morning.

• Spend at least 20 minutes moving your body.

• Limit time spent consuming negative online content.

• Reflect each evening on one lesson you learned that day.

• Encourage someone else with a kind word or phone call.

• Review your goals every week and adjust them as life changes.

• Make time for prayer, quiet reflection, or gratitude.

“Inner strength grows through daily action,” Dr. Blake said. “The habits you build today prepare you for the challenges you’ll face tomorrow.”

Dr. Blake hopes more people will share these ideas with their families, friends, coworkers, and communities. He believes resilience grows stronger when people encourage one another and commit to steady personal growth.

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About Dr. James Blake

Dr. James Blake is a retired emergency medicine physician based in Richmond, Kentucky. A former Olympic cyclist and black belt in martial arts, he spent decades caring for patients while building a career rooted in teamwork, perseverance, faith, and service. Today, he continues to advocate for personal discipline, resilience, goal-setting, and lifelong growth through the lessons he learned in medicine and life.

New Jersey, USA, Aug 07, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Seci Construction, Inc., a family-owned exterior home improvement company founded in 1973, has released a free 15-Minute Home Exterior Self-Audit designed for homeowners, first-time buyers, and anyone responsible for maintaining a residential property.

The one-page checklist guides individuals through a simple visual review of their roofline, siding, windows, doors, gutters, drainage areas, masonry, and attic. It does not require special tools, climbing onto a roof, or prior construction knowledge.

The resource reflects lessons Seci Construction has gained while completing more than 5,000 roofing projects and serving homeowners across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania.

“When you’ve worked on thousands of homes, you learn how to solve problems properly,” the company said. “You also learn that small issues often become major problems when they are ignored.”

Why a Simple Home Self-Audit Matters

The checklist arrives as weather exposure, ageing housing and energy loss continue to create real costs for American households.

Four figures help show the scale of the issue:

• The United States experienced 27 separate billion-dollar weather and climate disasters in 2024, with estimated costs of $182.7 billion.

• About one in every 36 insured homes has a property damage claim related to wind or hail.

• About one in every 67 insured homes has a property damage claim caused by water damage or freezing.

• Uncontrolled air leakage may account for 30% or more of a home’s heating and cooling costs.

The self-audit is not intended to diagnose structural problems. It helps individuals notice visible changes, record them and decide whether an area needs closer attention.

“A roof is not just shingles,” Seci Construction said. “It’s protection for a family. It has to last. It has to perform.”

What the Free Checklist Covers

The resource asks users to review ten areas from safe ground-level or indoor positions:

1. Missing, lifted or visibly damaged roofing materials

2. Sagging or uneven sections along the roofline

3. Gutters containing leaves, standing water or visible gaps

4. Downspouts that release water too close to the foundation

5. Cracked, loose, warped or discoloured siding

6. Gaps around windows and exterior doors

7. Cracked or deteriorating masonry

8. Branches touching or hanging over the roof

9. Water marks, damp areas or unusual odours in the attic

10. Changes that have appeared since the previous inspection

Users can mark each item as “clear,” “watch” or “needs attention.” They can also add the date and take photographs to create a basic maintenance record.

“We understand that a home is personal,” the company said. “People are trusting you with something that matters deeply to them.”

Use This in 15 Minutes

Minutes 1–3: Start at the front of the property
Stand at a safe distance and look at the roofline, gutters, siding, windows and doors. Do not climb onto the roof.

Minutes 4–7: Walk around the sides and back
Look for drainage problems, loose materials, cracked masonry and branches near the structure.

Minutes 8–10: Check the ground around the home
Note standing water, soil erosion, blocked downspouts or areas where water appears to collect.

Minutes 11–13: Review the attic or upper level
Look for visible moisture, stains, daylight entering through gaps or musty odours. Avoid touching wiring or damaged materials.

Minutes 14–15: Record what you found
Mark the checklist, photograph any visible changes and set a date to review the area again.

“People want honesty and clear communication,” Seci Construction said. “That matters just as much as the construction work itself.”

Common Mistakes People Make

Seci Construction developed the resource to address several common habits that can make exterior problems harder to track.

Waiting for an active leak: Water may travel before it becomes visible indoors. A ceiling stain may not appear directly below the source.

Checking only after a major storm: Seasonal reviews can help people establish what is normal for their property and notice gradual changes.

Looking only at the roof: Gutters, siding, window seals, drainage and masonry all help protect the building envelope.

Failing to take photographs: Without dated images, it can be difficult to tell whether a crack, stain or uneven area has changed.

Climbing onto the roof without training: The checklist is designed for observations from the ground or from safe indoor areas. Individuals should not place themselves at risk to complete it.

Making permanent repairs without understanding the cause: Covering a visible symptom may leave the original source of moisture or deterioration unresolved.

How to Use the Resource Today

Readers can begin today by setting a 15-minute timer, opening the checklist on a phone or printing one copy, and walking around their property from a safe distance.

Mark every area as “clear,” “watch” or “needs attention.” Take a dated photograph of anything that looks different, damaged or uncertain. Store the checklist with home records and repeat the review after major weather events and at the start of each season.

Readers are also encouraged to share the checklist with a neighbour, relative or first-time homeowner who may not yet have a regular exterior maintenance routine.

To read the full interview, visit the website here.

About Seci Construction, Inc.

Founded in 1973 in Clifton, New Jersey, Seci Construction, Inc. is a family-owned exterior home improvement company serving homeowners across New Jersey, New York, Connecticut and Pennsylvania. Its services include roofing, siding, windows, doors, gutters and masonry. The company has completed more than 5,000 roofing projects and holds GAF Master Elite Contractor, GAF President’s Club and Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor recognition. Learn more at Seciinc.com.

New York, USA, Aug 07, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Procurement professional and leadership advocate Omar Messado has announced the release of a free Leadership Self-Audit Checklist, a practical resource that helps people assess how they communicate, solve problems, build trust, and support others at work. The guide is designed for anyone looking to become a stronger leader, regardless of job title or industry.

After decades leading procurement teams and complex infrastructure projects for organizations including Metro-North Railroad, Kawasaki Rail Car and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA), Messado believes leadership begins with self-awareness rather than authority.

“Success is not just about career growth,” said Messado. “It is about the many people you have impacted positively and how they continue to grow because you helped, supported, guided or educated them.”

The checklist encourages users to reflect on everyday behaviours that influence long-term success, including communication, planning, accountability, mentorship, and decision-making.

According to Gallup, only 23% of employees strongly agree that their leaders communicate effectively, while employees who feel recognized are 45% less likely to leave their jobs, according to research from Gallup and Workhuman. Meanwhile, LinkedIn’s Workplace Learning Report found that 94% of employees say they would stay longer at a company that invests in their development, and Gallup estimates that low employee engagement costs the global economy approximately US$8.9 trillion each year, demonstrating the far-reaching impact of ineffective leadership.

Messado says improving leadership starts with simple daily habits.

“Be a leader that is open to learning from others, especially those you supervise,” he said. “Give credit and recognition to those who deserve it.”

The resource also reflects one of the most important lessons Messado learned from his longtime mentor, Gennaro “Gene” Sansone.

“Say what you mean and mean what you say,” Messado said. “Integrity builds trust, and trust creates stronger teams.”

Throughout his career, Messado has been known for solving difficult procurement challenges through collaboration rather than conflict. One example came while managing a complex contract at Kawasaki Rail Car. Instead of pursuing an expensive contractual payment, he proposed an alternative solution that provided valuable deliverables to the client while allowing both organizations to reach a fair agreement.

“There is always a way to resolve things,” he said. “It does not need to be dramatic nor destructive.”

Use This in 15 Minutes

The Leadership Self-Audit Checklist can be completed in approximately 15 minutes by:

• Rating yourself across ten leadership behaviours.

• Identifying your three strongest leadership habits.

• Highlighting three areas that need improvement.

• Choosing one practical action to complete this week.

• Reviewing your progress again after 30 days.

Common Mistakes People Make

The checklist also helps people avoid common leadership mistakes, including:

• Assuming leadership only applies to managers.

• Focusing on personal achievements instead of team success.

• Avoiding difficult conversations rather than resolving them.

• Failing to recognise the contributions of others.

• Treating mistakes as failures instead of learning opportunities.

• Setting goals without reviewing or adjusting them over time.

Messado believes leadership is a skill that anyone can strengthen through consistent effort and honest reflection. Leadership is not about controlling people, it is about serving and protecting them.

“My success is when you see the accomplishment of others based on your input, guidance and support,” he said. “Your success is measured by the accomplishments of your team.”

How to Get Started Today

Download or recreate the Leadership Self-Audit Checklist, set aside 15 uninterrupted minutes, answer each question honestly, and identify one behaviour you can improve this week. Revisit the checklist every month to measure your progress, celebrate small wins, and continue building habits that strengthen your leadership, relationships, and long-term career growth.

To read more, visit the website here.

About Omar Messado

Omar Messado is a procurement professional with extensive experience in strategic sourcing, contract management, transportation, construction, infrastructure, and organizational leadership. Throughout his career with Metro-North Railroad, and the Metropolitan Transportation Authority, he has led complex procurement initiatives while mentoring teams and promoting integrity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Born in Jamaica, West Indies and raised in New York, he is a strong advocate for leadership development, personal accountability, and helping others achieve lasting success.

• Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe in Koloa, Hawaii invites locals and visitors to learn island-inspired breakfast techniques in a restored plantation setting.

A Community Gathering Built on Heritage and Hospitality

Koloa, Hawaii, Aug 06, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe is launching a new community initiative designed to share the traditions, techniques, and flavors behind Hawaiian breakfast cuisine. Starting in May 2026, the cafe will host free monthly cooking workshops open to anyone who wants to learn how to prepare island-inspired dishes at home.

The workshops will take place on the cafe’s lanai overlooking the koi pond and lush gardens at Kiahuna Plantation. Each session will focus on a different breakfast or brunch staple, from loco moco and sweet crepes to homemade pancake batter and eggs Benedict variations. Participants will work alongside the cafe’s kitchen team to prepare dishes, ask questions, and take home recipes.

“Kauaʻi has a strong sense of place, and Poʻipū felt like the right setting for a breakfast spot that is relaxed, high-quality, and convenient,” the cafe noted. “The goal was to create a cafe where great coffee and fresh food fit naturally into an unhurried island morning, whether dining in or heading out for the day.”

Who Can Join and What to Expect

The workshops are open to all ages and skill levels. No prior cooking experience is required. Each session accommodates up to 12 participants and lasts approximately 90 minutes. Attendees will receive a recipe card, cooking tips, and a complimentary coffee or pastry from Orly Patisserie.

Workshop topics will rotate monthly and may include preparing traditional Hawaiian breakfast dishes, working with local ingredients, coffee brewing basics with beans from Kauaʻi Roastery, and plating techniques for home entertaining. The cafe will also offer shorter 30-minute office hours before select workshops for anyone with specific questions about ingredients, sourcing, or recipe substitutions.

The initiative reflects the cafe’s values of authenticity, simplicity, and aloha. Set within a restored plantation-era manager’s home, Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe honors the timeless rhythm of island life and serves as a gathering place where locals and travelers alike can slow down, share a meal, and experience the beauty of Kaua’i’s heritage.

Mentorship Circles for Aspiring Hospitality Professionals

In addition to the cooking workshops, Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe will host quarterly mentorship circles for individuals interested in careers in the restaurant and hospitality industry. These informal gatherings will bring together cafe staff, local chefs, and community members to discuss topics such as menu development, customer service, managing a small business, and honoring cultural heritage in hospitality.

The mentorship circles are designed for high school students, recent graduates, career changers, and anyone exploring opportunities in the food and beverage sector. Each circle will be limited to eight participants to encourage open conversation and relationship building.

The cafe operates daily from 7 AM to 1 PM for breakfast and brunch, and offers dinner service 5 PM to 8:30 PM nightly except Wednesday evenings. Free parking and Wi-Fi are available to all guests and workshop participants.

How to Join and Participate

Registration for the cooking workshops and mentorship circles will open in early May 2026. Interested individuals can sign up in person at the cafe, by phone, or through the cafe’s social media pages on Facebook and Instagram. Walk-ins are welcome if space permits, but advance registration is encouraged.

For those with limited time, the cafe also offers quick takeout options including coffee, pastries, and select menu items. Community members who cannot attend a full workshop are invited to stop by during office hours or connect with the cafe team during regular service hours to ask questions or share ideas.

The cafe encourages participants to bring questions, curiosity, and an open mind. All materials and ingredients for the workshops will be provided at no cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need cooking experience to attend a workshop? No. The workshops are designed for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced home cooks.

Is there a cost to participate? No. All workshops, office hours, and mentorship circles are free. Participants will receive a complimentary coffee or pastry.

How do I register? Registration opens in early May 2026. Sign up in person at the cafe, by phone, or via the cafe’s Facebook and Instagram pages.

What should I bring? Just yourself. All ingredients, tools, and materials are provided. Participants will take home recipe cards and cooking tips.

Can I attend if I’m visiting Kauai for a short time? Yes. The workshops are open to both locals and visitors. Check the schedule when you arrive and register if space is available.

Join the Table

Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe invites everyone to join the table, learn a new skill, and connect with the flavors and traditions that make Kaua’i’s breakfast culture unique. Whether attending a full workshop, stopping by for office hours, or joining a mentorship circle, participants will find a welcoming space rooted in the heritage of Kiahuna Plantation and the spirit of island hospitality.

To learn more and register for upcoming workshops, visit Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe at 2253 Poipu Road in Koloa, or follow the cafe on Facebook and Instagram for updates and schedules.

About Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe

Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe is a casual breakfast, brunch, and lunch destination located on the grounds of Kiahuna Plantation in Poipu, Kauai. Opened in April 2026, the cafe operates daily from 7 AM to 1 PM for breakfast and brunch, with dinner service from 5 PM to 8:30 PM nightly except Wednesday evenings. Set within a restored plantation-era manager’s home, the cafe features lanai seating overlooking a koi pond and lush gardens. The menu centers on fresh, high-quality ingredients and comfort-forward breakfast favorites. Co-owned by Kirk and Paula Coult, Kiahuna Sunrise Cafe is their seventh restaurant and serves as a gathering place that honors the heritage and hospitality of Kaua’i.

2253 Po`ipū Road
Koloa, Hawaii 96756

• Dr. Emil Kohan, a board-certified plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills, California, explains why common misconceptions about aesthetic procedures can harm patients and shares practical guidance for making informed decisions.

The Cost of Believing the Wrong Information

Beverly Hills, CA, Aug 06, 2026, ZEX PR WIRE — Every day, people make decisions about cosmetic procedures based on information they see on social media, hear from friends, or assume is true. Unfortunately, many of these beliefs are myths that can lead to disappointment, unsafe choices, or results that do not match expectations. Dr. Emil Kohan, a board-certified plastic surgeon specializing in body contouring, breast surgery, and revision procedures, has spent years helping patients navigate these misconceptions. “Good decisions usually come from clarity,” Dr. Kohan explains. “People should feel informed, respected, and comfortable asking questions.”

This article examines five common myths that mislead individuals considering aesthetic procedures, why people believe them, the facts that correct them, and practical steps anyone can take to make better decisions.

Myth 1: You Should Look Like Someone Else

Many people bring photos of celebrities or influencers to consultations and ask to look exactly like them. This belief is fueled by social media, where filters and curated images create unrealistic standards of beauty. People assume that copying someone else’s features will make them happy or confident.

The truth is that aesthetic surgery works best when it enhances your natural features rather than replacing them. “Patients don’t want to look like someone else. They want to look like the best version of themselves,” Dr. Kohan says. Every person has unique proportions, anatomy, and facial or body structure. What looks great on one person may not suit another.

Practical tip: Instead of bringing photos of other people, bring photos of yourself at a time when you felt confident. This helps your surgeon understand your goals while respecting your natural anatomy.

Myth 2: The Cheapest Option Is a Good Deal

Cost is a major factor for many people, and it can be tempting to choose the least expensive surgeon or facility. This myth persists because people assume all surgeons offer the same level of skill and safety. They believe that saving money on a procedure is a smart financial decision.

In reality, plastic surgery requires precision, experience, and proper safety protocols. Board certification, years of training, and a proven track record matter. Dr. Kohan emphasizes that “the details matter. Small decisions can have a major impact on the final result.” Choosing a surgeon based solely on price can lead to complications, poor results, or the need for costly revision surgery later.

Practical tip: Verify that your surgeon is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Ask how many times they have performed the specific procedure you want and request to see before-and-after photos of actual patients.

Myth 3: Recovery Will Be Quick and Easy

Social media often shows people looking flawless just days after surgery, leading many to believe recovery is fast and painless. Influencers may downplay their recovery time or share edited content that does not reflect reality. This myth creates false expectations and can lead to frustration when recovery takes longer than anticipated.

The reality is that healing takes time. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort are normal. Most procedures require weeks or even months for final results to appear. “The goal isn’t to chase trends. The goal is to create results that fit the individual and stand the test of time,” Dr. Kohan notes. Rushing back to normal activities too soon can compromise results or lead to complications.

Practical tip: Before scheduling surgery, block out enough time for proper recovery. Follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions exactly, even if you feel fine. Rest and patience are part of the process.

Myth 4: All Surgeons Are Equally Qualified

Many people assume that any doctor offering cosmetic procedures has the same training and expertise. This myth is dangerous because not all physicians who perform aesthetic procedures are board-certified plastic surgeons. Some may have minimal training in cosmetic surgery or come from unrelated specialties.

Board certification in plastic surgery requires years of specialized training, rigorous exams, and ongoing education. Dr. Kohan points out that “medicine never stands still. The responsibility of a surgeon is to continue learning and improving.” Choosing a surgeon without verifying credentials increases the risk of poor outcomes and safety issues.

Practical tip: Ask your surgeon where they completed their residency training and whether they are board-certified in plastic surgery. Do not assume a medical degree guarantees expertise in cosmetic procedures.

Myth 5: One Procedure Will Fix Everything

Some people believe that a single surgery will solve all their concerns about appearance or self-confidence. This myth is reinforced by marketing that promises dramatic transformations and perfect results. It can lead to disappointment when surgery improves physical appearance but does not address deeper emotional or psychological issues.

Surgery can enhance your appearance, but it is not a cure for low self-esteem, relationship problems, or life challenges. “This isn’t just about surgery. It’s about learning how to make thoughtful decisions instead of reactive ones,” Dr. Kohan says. Realistic expectations are essential for satisfaction.

Practical tip: Before committing to surgery, spend time reflecting on your motivations. If you are using surgery to meet someone else’s expectations or fix problems unrelated to appearance, consider speaking with a counselor or therapist first.

If You Only Remember One Thing

The most important lesson is this: do your research, ask questions, and choose a board-certified plastic surgeon you trust. “Science and creativity should work together. The best decisions come from combining good information with thoughtful reflection,” Dr. Kohan explains. Taking time to verify credentials, understand recovery, and set realistic expectations will lead to better outcomes and greater satisfaction.

Take Action Today

Share this list of myths with someone who might benefit from the information. Choose one practical tip from this article and apply it today, whether that means researching surgeon credentials, setting aside proper recovery time, or reflecting on your true motivations. Making informed decisions starts with knowing what to avoid and what questions to ask.

About Dr. Emil J. Kohan

Dr. Emil J. Kohan is a board-certified plastic surgeon practicing in Beverly Hills, California. He specializes in aesthetic surgery with a focus on body contouring, mommy makeover procedures, breast surgery, liposuction, and advanced revision cases. Known for combining surgical precision with an artistic approach, Dr. Kohan has built a reputation for refined, natural-looking results tailored to each individual patient. He earned his medical degree from the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA and completed his residency in plastic and reconstructive surgery at the University of California, Irvine.