Are You a Candidate for Cosmetic Surgery?

The decision to have cosmetic surgery is very personal and includes many aspects to consider before going under the knife. Whether the procedure being considered is a facial procedure or a body plastic surgical procedure, your expectations need to be realistic before going any further. Plastic surgery can be one of the most rewarding decisions when the patient has been properly informed, is in good health, and has a good relationship with their Plastic Surgeon.

Here are a few steps to follow when considering Cosmetic Plastic Surgery:

• Health - Your overall health should be good. If there are any questions regarding your prior medical history, or you have a family history that includes complications from anesthesia, you should consult with your general doctor first. Patients using hormone replacement therapy should consult with their physicians prior to having any surgical procedure that includes the use of general anesthesia due to the increased risk of DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis). Many cosmetic plastic surgical procedures are performed under local anesthesia which decreases risks for patients concerned about the use of general anesthesia.


• Tobacco Use- You should stop any and all tobacco use at least 2 or 3 weeks prior to any surgical procedure and continue to refrain from any tobacco use well after any surgical procedure. Tobacco use has been proven to inhibit the body's ability to heal. Sure, you will eventually heal, but it will be seriously delayed and could even cause your incisions to be more noticeable when they do heal. In many cases, patients who continue to use tobacco products before and after surgical procedures have delayed healing, prolonged bruising, and even increased risk for infection. This rule includes second-hand tobacco use. Patients who have recovered in the presence of other tobacco users show the exact same symptoms as those who are first-hand tobacco users. If you aren't honest with your surgeon regarding your tobacco use, he will "see" the truth during your recovery.


• Weight - Patients wishing to have a tummy tuck or liposuction in order to lose weight are disillusioned. Neither of these procedures help with weight loss but rather body contouring. If you have a few pounds you wish to shed and are considering facial procedures, you should do so prior to your surgery. Losing weight after a facelift can ruin your great result in many cases.


• Mental Stability - Patients should take a close and honest look at their mental stability prior to having plastic surgery. Are you going through a divorce? Have you had a recent life changing event? Plastic Surgery is not a tool to use to get your boyfriend back or to help you get that job promotion. The decision to have a cosmetic procedure can help boost self-esteem, confidence, and should be your decision. You should not have cosmetic surgery to please someone else.


• Choose the Right Surgeon for You - The Aesthetic world is full of phonies. Our media is full of Plastic-surgery-gone-wrong stories due to the growing numbers of unqualified surgeons performing cosmetic procedures. Finding a qualified Plastic Surgeon is simple when using two great resources: The American Society of Plastic Surgeons and the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Both of these organizations require their members have the real board certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. In addition, the members must adhere to strict codes of ethics and meet continuing medical education requirements. A good rule of thumb advice would be to choose 3 qualified plastic surgeons and consult with all three before making your selection to schedule surgery. Do not choose your surgeon based on price: less is not always more.

Cosmetic Plastic Surgery is one of the fastest growing industries because of the many benefits and rewards if has to offer whether reconstructive plastic surgery or a minor touch up to turn back the clock. Your road to plastic surgery can be very positive as long as you are prepared for the recovery process necessary for a great result. Make sure you have a good relationship with your surgeon and feel comfortable with the surgeon's staff as you will rely on their care before, during, and after your surgical procedure.