Plastic surgery has come a long way since the first cosmetic procedure in India during the 6th century BC. That’s right, the 6th century. Although there has been significant evolution in the techniques and tools we use today, there are still several misconceptions. For starters, plastic surgery is most often used as an umbrella term for all cosmetic procedures; however, it is defined as a surgical specialty dedicated to reconstruction of facial and body defects due to birth disorders, trauma, burns and disease.  On the surface, plastic surgery sounds like a simple and fast alternative to enhancing your appearance, but there are several items to consider before following through with a procedure.

 

Are you doing it for the right reasons? Prior to exploring plastic surgery, it is important to ask yourself “why?” Acknowledging the motivation behind your interest in plastic surgery will help establish lifelong happiness with a procedure. Whether you’re a mom interested in a mommy makeover or just outright tired of your droopy arms, plastic surgery not only has the power to impact your health and beauty, but more importantly your strength. It’s true, beauty shouldn’t fit a mold, but when you are comfortable in your skin, you are empowered. Therefore, it is vital to ensure that you aren’t jumping on the idea of plastic surgery for anyone other than yourself.

 

Are you healthy enough to have plastic surgery?  Plastic surgery is not a fast and easy solution. Maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise regimen and making good lifestyle choices can provide prolonged results. For example, let’s say you’re interested in a breast reduction, but you’re also in a position to lose 20 pounds. It is not uncommon for a doctor to recommend losing weight prior to having the procedure when considering long-term results. In addition to improving long-term results, having a healthy stature can also reduce discomfort post-procedure.

 

Does your insurance cover the procedure costs?  DO YOUR RESEARCH! If you’re considering undergoing surgery because it is essential to preserving your quality of life and is considered reconstructive and non-cosmetic, your health insurance plan may cover it. Plastic surgery is expensive, there is NO question about that. Understanding not only the procedure, but your options for funding it can create open and honest conversations with your doctor to learn what is best for you.  

 

Do you understand the risks associated with procedure? Plastic surgery should be treated like any other surgery. When you undergo surgery, there are risks.  Let’s be honest, although a poor cosmetic outcome is often the most feared result of a patient undergoing cosmetic surgery, other complications may arise. For example, scarring, nerve damage, infection and blood clots are all possible, but don’t let that scare you. Voicing your concerns of a procedure to your doctor can provide them with the opportunity to share comforting statistics of success and answer questions about the myths and realities of the procedures.

 

Are you able to take time off for the required recovery time? Often the most forgotten aspect of undergoing a surgical procedure is the recovery time. Post-surgery you will most likely be exhausted, sore and bruised. It’s important to remember that lifelong results take time and scheduling enough time for recovery is essential to your health. Asking questions regarding recovery time during consultations will not only help you schedule the required time off, but also align your expectations with reality.

Are you ready to take the next step towards plastic surgery? Contact Quintessence Plastic Surgery to schedule an informative consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Aisha White.