Knowing if you are making the right decision…
Are you considering plastic surgery? Is there something on your face or body that you wish to cosmetically change or enhance? Perhaps it is time to turn back the hands of time and if so, are you wondering what treatment is best for you? In this era of cosmetic surgery, these are all questions people ask, but with so many options to consider, it can be a lot to digest. Our skilled staff and board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group for Plastic Surgery in New Jersey can give you the advice and expertise you will need, but let’s start with the basics and take a look at some of the most common questions you should be asking yourself before considering plastic surgery.
1) What is your reason behind considering plastic surgery?
It is a well-known fact, that you should never be motivated to change your body for anyone but yourself. The motivation behind why you are considering plastic surgery should only come from something you want and not anyone else. It is your body, to begin with and you should not change it for someone else. You need to be motivated to have a procedure done because it is something you want and has been thinking about doing for a long time.
2) What are you wanting to change?
When considering plastic surgery, it is always best to know what you want to do and what you hope to achieve. For example, is there a feature on your body that bothers you greatly? For instance, perhaps you have extra-large, heavy breasts and you are considering a breast reduction to be more comfortable and find clothes that fit. Or, on the opposite side of the spectrum, you have been thinking about getting breast augmentation with implants but have been gunshy to move forward. There are countless reasons why someone would want to undergo a cosmetic procedure. Make sure you know exactly what bothers you and what type of aesthetic outcome you hope to receive from surgery.
3) Have you done all you can?
Ideally, if you are considering plastic surgery you want to make sure you have done all you can. Have you been at your ideal weight for more than 6 months but you just can’t seem to lose those unflattering love handles? If you have children, are you done growing your family so your “mommy makeover” will have lasting results? If you are considering facial surgery, have you looked into the nonsurgical options that possibly could help before undergoing a major operation? Plastic surgery can definitely help you reach certain aesthetic goals, but it’s important to make sure you have tried all you can to improve the area you wish to change before surgery. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and having a solid foundation of self-confidence prior to your plastic surgery procedure will only benefit you more once it is over.
4) Are you done growing?
Sounds like an odd question, but more and more younger people are considering plastic surgery. If you are going to have surgery to “change” something on your body then changes due to hormones or a growth spurt should be considered. This is something that can be discussed during your private consultation with one of our New Jersey area board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group. In addition, certain procedures are reserved for people over a certain age to ensure your body is ready for lasting change.
5) Have you done your research?
It is not only important to know what you are having done but most importantly who will be doing the procedure. Choosing your plastic surgeon or surgical center is a crucial decision in the process. It is a known fact not all doctors are the same. Finding a board-certified plastic surgeon is necessary and finding one that comes highly recommended would be beneficial. You want a doctor that will listen to what you want and make sure your needs are going to be met.
6) What are your expectations?
Finding the right surgeon is key but they are going to want to know what your expectations are for your procedure. Having unrealistic goals or trying to look like Jennifer Lopez will not benefit your end result. A surgeon is going to do their best to give you what you want but you also need to set realistic expectations for what you are having done. If you are in your 70’s and want to look like you are in your 40’s again, then you might not be setting an achievable goal. Talk to your plastic surgeon and work with them to set realistic expectations so you can be happy with the end results!
7) Do you know what your recovery will be like?
Plastic surgery is major surgery so you will need help with recovery. You will need to plan ahead to have someone helping you for a for several days depending on what type of procedure you are considering. Taking time off work or having someone personally help you around your home will be necessary for recovery in order to heal appropriately. The recovery process is very important to reduce the risk of infections and to allow the body to properly heal in order to get the best results.
8) Can you afford it?
Since cosmetic procedures are elective, they are not covered by insurance. In some cases, breast reduction surgery is one of the rare procedures that can be covered due to the health issues women with significantly large breasts endure. You need to do your research to find out if the surgical practice or surgeon you have chosen offers payment plans. Costs will vary by procedure and which doctor you choose.
If you are considering plastic surgery, it’s important that you do your homework. Research what you are having done, and most importantly, find the right plastic surgeon to do the job. Ask yourself these questions and know the answers before you consider plastic surgery. Our board-certified plastic surgeons at The Peer Group for Plastic Surgery in the New Jersey area are here to give you the advice and support you need to make your surgery a success! Call or schedule your consultation today!