About one in five men and half of all women would consider getting cosmetic work done if they could afford it.
It’s pretty much safe to say that plastic surgery is gradually losing its taboo status in the US. Social media, in particular, has increased the demand for plastic surgery and may have made it more acceptable.
However, one thing’s for certain: making a hasty, uninformed decision about surgery can lead to regret later.
Still unsure whether cosmetic surgery is right for you? Let’s take a look at 5 key questions you need to ask your plastic surgeon during your next consultation.
1. Am I a Good Candidate for This Type of Surgery?
Modern cosmetic clinics like Aestheticon offer a seemingly endless selection of procedures. But just because you think you’d benefit from a procedure doesn’t mean you’re a good candidate for it.
For example, if you want a facelift, being obese and having inelastic skin can work against you. And if you need corrective jaw surgery, you’re most likely a poor candidate for chin implants.
A good surgeon will have a sit-down with you to determine if you should move forward. During this discussion, make sure not to leave out any details about health issues you have or medications you take.
2. What Are the Risks Associated with this Procedure?
Depending on the type of surgery you get, the risks range from scarring to organ damage. In extremely rare cases, complications from plastic surgery can even lead to death.
You can reduce your risks by avoiding unqualified surgeons and new procedures, as well as following instructions. But complications related to anesthesia and infection are often unpredictable.
The surgeon should give you a rundown of the risks, and let you know about the signs and symptoms to look out for.
3. What Happens If I’m Dissatisfied with My Results?
Even if the procedure goes without a hitch, there’s still a chance that you won’t be happy with the outcome. About one in three patients don’t like the results of their facelift.
The before-and-after photos most surgeons show you are usually examples of their best work. Keep in mind that these pictures represent the ideal outcome, not the average results.
A good plastic surgeon will explain that results can vary substantially. If things go wrong, they may offer a free touch-up or refer you to someone else for a second opinion.
4. What Can I Expect When It Comes to Recovery?
Some types of cosmetic surgery will require you to take time off from work, skip workouts, or hire a babysitter.
By asking the right plastic surgery interview questions about the recovery process, you get a good idea of how you can plan ahead.
An experienced surgeon will offer pain relief tips to make recovery easier for you. They may also suggest non-invasive alternatives that work best for your situation.
5. How Much Will All of This Cost?
At face value, this seems like an obvious question. But you have to do a little more digging to get an accurate response.
There are often hidden costs that surgeons will fail to mention unless you inquire about them. For example, you may need certain post-surgery products. And if you end up with complications, you can expect to pay even more.
Feel free to explore your options, but remember that it’s not always a good idea to go with the cheapest clinic. While an experienced, board-certified surgeon may charge more, they’re also a much safer bet.
Final Thoughts on What to Ask Your Plastic Surgeon
While cosmetic surgery can improve your life, many things can go wrong along the way. You need to know what to expect, both healthwise and moneywise. The questions listed above will help you make an informed final decision.
If you decide to get surgery, there are a few more questions you should ask your plastic surgeon. Probe them about their work experience, and ask to see their certifications.
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