When to Elect for Surgery
Surgery > When to Elect for Surgery
Almost 7 million people in the United States alone underwent cosmetic procedures in 2002, according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. That’s a lot of people that were unhappy with their
For some people, it’s a matter of aging. They want to erase wrinkles with the modern miracle of Botox or Restylane. For others, it’s all about a self image that they’ve had since they were younger. Perhaps they’ve never been satisfied with the look of their chin, or the size of their breasts.
Whatever the reason, in today’s image-based culture, elective cosmetic procedures are not considered a sign of sadness or disease. They don’t act like a red light to mental illness or poor self image (unless someone is addicted to this surgery).
When Surgery isn’t So Pretty
On the contrary, elective cosmetic surgery is something that a majority of people might try if they could afford it. Whole television shows are based upon “blessing” people with cosmetic makeovers who normally would
No one should select this form of surgery lightly, however. After all, it is still surgery. The doctor could be cutting into you, or injecting you
If that isn’t invasive enough, they could also be removing pieces of your natural body, slicing through layers of tissue, rebuilding whole other layers—all in
If You’re Going to Elect it, Vote Right
Take precautions whatever procedure you elect to have. Start by discussing it with your primary care provider. They can help you weight the
They can also refer you to a trusted specialist if you still determine you want to proceed with the surgery. Many times, this specialist is in dermatology or aesthetic plastic surgery..
Your best bet is to get more than one of these referrals. This will be a serious surgery you’ll undergo. You want to make sure it’s done safely
So speak with as many specialists as you have time for. Find the one that seems most qualified and who makes you feel most assured. Double check your own impression by making sure that the doctor is certified by the proper medical board.
Good credentials don’t necessarily mean there is no risk to the procedure. But they sure can decrease the risk of danger and complications. Your best bet in the States, for instance, would be to find a specialist with credentials from the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS).
An ABPS certification guarantees that your surgeon completed at least five years of residency training after medical school, of which at least two
The ABPS also requires that licensed physicians pass rigorous exams and that they are qualified to perform reconstructive surgery, along with cosmetic procedures.
Perhaps most important for a lot of people, discuss fees with each specialist. How much will the procedure cost? Why? And how much will your insurance pick up, if any?
Once you have the right specialist, have a serious heart to heart with him or her. Let the doctor know exactly what you expect out of the surgery, and why you want it. A good specialist will help you weigh your expectations and needs with the reality of what can be achieved.
Think Safety Pre-Surgery
Before you the procedure has started, there are other things you should be sure to share with your plastic surgeon or dermatologist. For instance,
Fill them in completely on your medical background, as well. Bring up any chronic disorders that you have, especially cardiovascular disease, lung disorders, or complications with blood clots.
Also, question your specialist about his or her staff. These people will be in the operating room as well, so you should be certain that they are skilled and licensed. This goes doubly so for the anesthesiologist.
No surgery is completely risk free, even cosmetic procedures. But by taking the time to research your physician, to consider fully the steps you are about to undertake, and prepare properly for the surgery, you maximize your chances of success—both aesthetically and for your health in general.