Bad plastic surgery can make a monster out of some beautiful people. Think Michael Jackson or Mickey Rourke. The truth is, there were more than 17 million cosmetic procedures in the US last year.
We tend to focus on a handful that looks pretty awful. Celebrities make good copy, and unflattering pictures sell. For the rest of the population, most are very happy with their results.
Often, minor procedures aren’t noticeable. We may compliment someone on how they look without knowing! The truth is, how someone looks after their process has much to do with the patient.
Some have an idea in their head of how they should look. And, their plan could be way over the top. Doctors tell us we should normalize our looks, not completely change them.
And, if you don’t follow doctors orders post-op, infection and lousy scarring can occur. A good doctor and taking care of yourself are first on the to-do list of considerations.
If you are asking “should I get plastic surgery?” here are a few more things to consider:
Be Honest With Yourself
Plastic surgery is an art, not something to transform you. If you want to look like Angelina Jolie, it’s not going to work for you.
If you’re going to look like yourself, only better, then you’re on the right track. We all have pesky things about our looks we prefer look different.
Moreso as we age. A lift of droopy skin can make us look years younger. If you hate everything about your looks, no doctor can change that.
Are You Trying Other Ways to Look How You Want?
Our tired old bodies follow what we do. So does our skin. If you haven’t been taking good care of them, it shows.
Genes have something to do with this too. The amount of collagen we have under our skin comes from our parents.
But, are you doing all the right things, though? Exercise, water, nutrition and avoiding alcohol or tobacco makes a huge difference.
Then, it may take less invasive work later. Taking good care of yourself now will make surgery and post-op that much more comfortable, too.
Try doing the right stuff now.
Make Sure You Do Your Homework
Talking with those who have gone before you isn’t enough. Everyone is different. And, no two people look the same.
Learn about what specific corrections you want. Research the procedures, the cost, and the recuperation.
Knowing what to expect takes much of the stress out. Then, look for a reputable surgeon. Check plastic surgeon Fort Worth TX for the kind of background you’ll want in a physician.
And, most important, understand the risks. Any surgery can have complications. Though they don’t often happen, inform yourself.
You Cannot Please Everyone
One of the sure signs plastic surgery is not right for you is this: doing for someone else. No one will keep their relationship going with plastic surgery.
There are many great things about cosmetic changes, but it doesn’t fix marriages. Or make you more popular. Sure, it may enhance them.
But the reasons to go forward should be yours. If your approach to surgery is looking better for you, then you are on the right track.
Know the Results
Not everyone is going to be happy with their results. And, some will return to their doctor for touch ups. But, some things can go much worse.
For example, breast implants are not forever. Some patients end up having them taken out after ten years due to complications.
But, if the results of a facelift leave you unhappy, there is no going back. Make sure you and your doctor look at every option.
If you are unsure, laser treatments or dermabrasion may be better (and cheaper) for now.
Addiction is Possible
Some people will continue to go back to the plastic surgeon for more and more help. Sooner rather than later, they bear little resemblance to their former selves.
Here’s a little secret for you. Doctors think they look ridiculous, too. And of course, not everyone has the money for endless plastic surgery.
But, for those who do, there is the danger of going too far.
Body dysmorphic disorder is higher in cosmetic surgery patients than other groups. There’s always a risk, even unintentional, that you’ll end up doing more harm than good.
Finding a doctor who will tell you the truth is vital.
Understand the Limits
Many plastic surgeons have a background working with such things as cleft palate. So, achieving a “normal” look is very relative to this expertise.
If you want to have a facelift but are overweight, they can predict the future. Your skin will change if you lose weight, but the surgery stays put.
If you have sinus issues but want nose work done, it may not be possible. Keep in mind that many doctors have non-invasive treatments, too.
You may not get what you wish to with surgery, but they’ll help you get results.
Should I Get Plastic Surgery? A Few Words on Timing
Going through surgery is a robust physical experience. But, it affects our mental state too. Those who are facing stressful situations may not make sound decisions.
And, recovery is more difficult. Some go into surgery without considering difficult circumstances.
Don’t decide on operation on the heels of a bad relationship. Or an unhealthy work situation. It’s not advisable to elect for anything for which you’re not ready.
Doctors sometimes recognize this, but we don’t always tell them everything. Do not dismiss giving yourself time to think about it.
Should I get plastic surgery is an excellent question to ask yourself. Be wise with your answer.
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