Thinking about cosmetic surgery? Below are 10 important questions to think about.
1. How do I determine if I’m a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
A preliminary consultation is the best way to determine if you’re a good candidate for cosmetic surgery. In general, cosmetic surgery procedures may be appropriate for women or men who meet these criteria.
Each candidate should be:
- psychologically stable
- close to their ideal weight (within 30%)
- able to maintain a healthy lifestyle
- realistic in their expectations
- looking to improve self-image (how people perceive and feel about themselves)
Realistic expectations are important. It’s best not expect cosmetic surgery to change your life. If you do not meet every single criterion, it does not necessarily mean you won’t be a good candidate for cosmetic surgery, but if you meet none of them, it’s most likely your doctor may want you to make some lifestyle changes before surgery.
2. Why am I considering cosmetic surgery?
The best reason to undergo cosmetic surgery is to improve your self-image, thus enhancing your feeling of well-being and fostering emotional health. Again, it is important to be realistic about the results you are looking to achieve. Do not expect cosmetic surgery to mend a troubled marriage, help land you a job, change your social life, or reinstate the vigor of your youth. Instead, focus on the way you feel about yourself and the impact that a physical change could have on that feeling.
3. Am I considering cosmetic surgery for myself or to please someone else?
Cosmetic surgery is a personal choice — it’s your body. Your partner, friends, and family are there to support your decisions, not to make them for you. People who care about you and love you should never pressure you about considering a surgical procedure.
4. How long have I been thinking about this surgery?
Make sure you have allowed yourself adequate time to make the decision that is right for you. This timeframe varies by individual. Talk to your doctor if you need guidance.
5. Are there other lifestyle changes I’d like to make to improve myself?
Making the decision to undergo cosmetic surgery can have wonderful results and can provide a self-confidence boost. But, be conscious of other lifestyle changes you can make to compliment your procedure(s). Proper exercise and diet are a critical part of maintaining your physical and mental health — even of maintaining your results after certain procedures.
6. Do I have any existing medical conditions that would be risk factors for having surgery?
As with all types of surgery, there are potential complications that may occur during or after the procedure. Delayed wound healing may occur in patients with diabetes, a history of radiation treatment, autoimmune disease, or a history of smoking. Potential risks can be addressed by undergoing a thorough medical evaluation prior to surgery.
7. Is the timing convenient and appropriate?
Plan the timing for your surgery to best suit you and your life. Consider family and work situations. Consider stress levels. Times of high stress such as divorce or death of a loved one may not be ideal for undergoing surgery. And, although your doctor is able to provide an estimated recovery time, healing can vary by individual. Overexertion without adhering to proper recovery requirements can be dangerous to your health.
8. Can I afford the surgery?
Speak with your plastic surgeon about the cost of the procedure(s) in which you are interested. If you are concerned about expense, ask your plastic surgeon if he or she offers financing. Many offices do.
9. Have I done my research about the procedure? About the surgeon?
Do your homework. With the world at our fingertips via the Internet, there is a wealth of information available to help you become knowledgeable about your options—whether it be learning about the latest surgical procedures or researching local surgeons’ credentials. Make a list of all the questions that cross your mind during your research. Then, ask your plastic surgeon to answer them.
10. Do I have more than one opinion?
I recommend scheduling consultations with at least two different plastic surgeons. Ask both surgeons your list of questions. Asking questions can help you get a feel for who is most in tune with you, your needs, and your desired results. It’s also important to evaluate each surgeon’s bedside manner and attentiveness during your initial consultation. Choosing a surgeon with good bedside manner and who will listen to you will provide reassurance and comfort throughout your cosmetic surgery experience.
Consider asking friends or family members if they’ve had positive experiences with any plastic surgeons. Or, confide in your family doctor, and ask for referrals.
These questions are just the beginning, but getting answers is an important point of departure as you journey toward a good plastic surgery outcome.
A Fort Worth plastic surgeon, Richard T. Ethridge, M.D., P.A., Ph.D.,
strives to promote health and well-being through a comprehensive
and personalized approach to rejuvenative and reconstructive surgery.
Dr. Ethridge specializes in plastic and reconstructive surgery, with a focus on
cosmetic and reconstructive procedures of the breast, body, and face.
For more information, visit www.drethridge.com or call 817.921.5566
Related Topics: 10 questions to ask yourself before cosemetic surgery | best 10 questions on cosmetics surgery |
