Steps to Take Prior to Getting a Cosmetic Surgery Procedure
Getting cosmetic surgery is very popular these days to get dramatic results that can't be had from the contents of your cosmetic bag. Before you jump on the bandwagon however, make sure you have all of the information you need as well as realistic expectations. Many people don't fully consider the risks and consequences of getting a cosmetic surgery procedure before doing it. In order to ensure that you are happy with the end result, take these simple steps.
Choose a Surgeon Carefully
You have to make sure you feel comfortable with your surgeon and that you trust him. Find a surgeon that is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. By doing so, you can be sure that the surgeons you find have completed at least five years of surgical training, have training and experience in all cosmetic surgery procedures, and fulfill continued medical education requirements.
Make sure that you feel comfortable with your doctor and what he can do. Look at plenty of before and after photos in his office and gauge whether he has realistic expectations. You should both anticipate improvement but not perfection. Seek referrals and recommendations from your family doctor or other medical professionals that you trust.
Consider the Time and Expense
Most cosmetic surgery procedures are not covered by medical insurance. A cosmetic surgery procedure can cost anywhere from hundreds to thousands of dollars depending on the procedure. The procedure itself and recovery also take time so you have to make the necessary preparations in your home and work life. You may have to take up to months off from work to give yourself time to recover.
Weigh the Potential Risks
No cosmetic surgery procedure is risk-free. Even non-invasive procedures come with risks. First there's the possibility that you may be unhappy with the results. More serious are the risks of complications. Infection, bleeding, and skin breakdown are some examples of potential risks associated with cosmetic surgery. As long as your overall state of health is good and you have a competent surgeon, you should expect your healing and recovery to be smooth.
Do yourself a favor and follow these simple steps prior to making the decision to get a cosmetic surgery procedure. No procedure is free of risk and rushing into a decision will only heighten your chance of experiencing complications or regrets. By weighing the risks, examining your expectations, considering recovery time and costs, and choosing a surgeon carefully, you are much more likely to be satisfied with the end result.
