Questions to Ask Yourself Before Pursuing Plastic Surgery
According to the latest statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, approximately 17.5 million cosmetic procedures were performed in 2017, a 2 percent increase from the previous year. And although more patients are discovering the life-changing benefits of plastic surgery, not everyone is a suitable candidate. If you are considering a surgical or non-surgical cosmetic procedure to enhance the appearance of your face or body, Albany plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjiv Kayastha encourages you to ask yourself the following questions:
Why am I seeking plastic surgery?
Plastic surgery is a potentially life-changing process and a serious undertaking. Simply put, you should only pursue a cosmetic procedure to improve a physical feature that bothers you, not to please someone else. If you feel pressured into plastic surgery, then it is probably not a good idea.
Are my expectations realistic?
The most satisfied plastic surgery patients are those with realistic expectations. The goal of plastic surgery should be to help you look like a better version of yourself, whether it’s slimmer, younger or simply more confident. You should not expect to look like an entirely different person after surgery. In addition, if you are hoping that plastic surgery can change everything about your personality, self-esteem or outlook on life, you are probably not a good candidate.
Have I done my homework about my desired procedure?
How much do you know about your procedure of choice? Take the time to research your procedure thoroughly, using reputable sources such as www.plasticsurgery.org or www.surgery.org. If you have any questions about the candidacy requirements, procedural details, risks, recovery or results, write them down and take them with you to your plastic surgery consultation.
Am I aware of the potential risks and complications?
All cosmetic procedures come with a degree of risk. While the likelihood of complications drastically decreases when working with a qualified plastic surgeon, you should understand that they are still a possibility. Before undergoing surgery, your surgeon will discuss all possible complications and risks, and should explain how he or she handles them, should they arise.
Am I ready for the recovery process?
All surgical (and some non-surgical) cosmetic procedures require a recovery period. During this time, many normal activities including work and exercise will be off limits. Before undergoing plastic surgery, ask yourself if you can take enough time off work and your normal routine. Allotting yourself enough time to heal is critical for a safe and smooth recovery.
If you feel ready to move forward with plastic surgery, the next step is to meet with a board-certified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Kayastha. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kayastha, please call (518) 346-3125 today.
