Plastic surgery can help correct imperfections or enhance the features you already have. Before taking the plunge, educate yourself as much as possible about the procedure to prepare adequately.
Find the best plastic surgeon who can answer all your questions and address your concerns to help you feel comfortable. Here are questions to consider before plastic surgery:
How Do I Find the Right Plastic Surgeon?
Before undergoing any plastic surgery, research to find the best plastic surgeon you can get. They should be experienced in the procedure you’re considering. They should also be board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
That shows they have adequate training and have been subject to review in their field. If the surgeon conducts their surgeries in their own clinic, check to determine if it’s accredited. You want a facility that values quality, safety, and excellent patient care.
How Does My Type of Plastic Surgery Work?
There are many types of plastic surgery, and they work differently to produce the desired results. Ask your plastic surgeon for a step-by-step description of the procedure so you know what to expect.
If you’re considering a facelift, you may want to know where the incisions will be made and how the surgeon will pull the skin tight to achieve a younger-looking appearance.
If you want to enlarge your breasts, you may ask how the implant is placed and what type would best suit your needs. The best plastic surgeon will be happy to answer any questions about how your specific procedure works.
Are There Any Risks Involved?
Every surgical procedure carries some risk, and plastic surgery is no exception. Even if the physician has an excellent reputation, there may be unexpected surgical complications.
Ask the plastic surgeon to discuss your specific risks, as these may vary depending on the type of procedure and other individual factors. Potential risks could include infection, scarring, or a reaction to the anesthesia.
Knowing these risks upfront can help you make an informed decision about whether or not to proceed with the procedure.
Will My Plastic Surgery Require Anesthesia?
Some plastic surgeries require anesthesia to reduce the pain and discomfort. Anesthesia exists in three primary forms: local, regional, and general. Local anesthesia numbs the area under operation while the patient is awake, regional anesthesia numbs a larger area such as an arm or leg, and general anesthesia puts the patient to sleep.
Depending on the procedure, your plastic surgeon may recommend one of these options. When you know which one they’ll use, you can prepare for the side effects. You may need to arrange for someone to take you home after the procedure.
How Long Will It Take to Recover?
Recovery time depends on the type of plastic surgery you’re getting. Ask your plastic surgeon for an estimated timeline of how long it may take you to heal. That will help you plan accordingly and make arrangements if necessary.
Some procedures may require a few days of rest, while others may take several weeks to recover fully. The best plastic surgeon will also give you guidelines on caring for yourself to speed up the healing process. They may discourage certain activities until your body has healed, such as strenuous exercise or exposure to the sun.
What Are the Expected Results?
Before undergoing any plastic surgery, ask your surgeon for a realistic expectation of the results. The surgeon can discuss what improvement they feel confident they can achieve for you.
They may also show you before and after photos of surgeries they’ve done before to give an idea of the expected results. While some surgeries may take only a few days to show results, others may take weeks before you can see the full effect.
How Much Will the Plastic Surgery Cost?
Plastic surgery can be costly, so ask the surgeon for a comprehensive estimate of what you may need to pay. The cost will vary depending on the procedure and the facility.
Get a breakdown of the fees to know what insurance may cover and what it doesn’t. That may help you budget accordingly. Some clinics may also offer flexible payment options to make their treatments more accessible.
Find the Best Plastic Surgeon for Your Needs
These questions should help you better understand the plastic surgery you’re considering. Take the time to find the best plastic surgeon who can address your concerns and answer all your questions.
When you’re more informed, you can make a confident decision about whether or not to proceed with the procedure, who to choose, and how to prepare for the plastic surgery.
