Things To Consider Before Cosmetic Surgery

It seems that recently, the demand for cosmetic procedures has skyrocketed. Plastic surgery is no longer only reserved for Hollywood divas and A-listers, and ordinary women and men are getting work done to fix sagging skin, deep frown lines, cellulite, you name it. However, there are many factors people overlook when deciding to go under the knife.

Make sure you’re healthy

Before you embark on this gruesome journey, you have to be aware that you must be in peak physical health to achieve the best results and recover as quickly as possible. The best candidates for cosmetic surgery are people with a strong immune system, and who don’t fluctuate in weight. It is also paramount that you quit smoking if you are a smoker, since cigarettes have a devastating effect on your healing process and may cause unnecessary complications.

Have realistic expectations

Furthermore, it is also important to have realistic expectations about what you can achieve with aesthetic procedures. While surgery can help improve or “enhance” your appearance, it can only do so much. It won’t find you a significant other, it won’t make you look like a completely different person, and it won’t fix your personal issues you may have with yourself. On the other hand, plastic surgery is a great way for people to fix smaller issues that may arise with aging, like sagging breasts, deep frown lines, scars from other procedures, etc. It won’t make you look like a twenty-year-old, but it will make you look softer, a bit younger, and more refreshed.

Look for the best surgeon

With procedures that might change your appearance forever, you really ought not to be stingy when it comes to finding the best possible surgeon. Due to high demand for aesthetic procedures, a growing number of non-plastic surgeons and other medical professionals are performing plastic surgeries, like dentists, OB/GYNs, cardiologists, internal medicine doctors, etc. Australia has some of the best board-certified surgeons in the field, so if you’re thinking of having your procedure done in Melbourne, you’d probably be in good hands. If you want to find the best cosmetic surgeon Melbourne can offer, make sure you go to different surgeons, since that way you can get different opinions on the best course of action for you, and even compare the prices for the procedures.

Evaluate the facility

Voluntarily going to a facility to get surgery is one of the rare cases where you should judge a book by its cover. You want your surgery to be performed in an accredited facility, hospital or medical center. Any other space, like an apartment, a strip mall, or an office building isn’t equipped to adequately address potential complications. Also, pay attention to the levels of hygiene in every room you enter. If you see that the floor is covered in dust bunnies, or the surfaces aren’t spotless, you better believe that the hygiene levels are below par even in the operating room. If you feel even slightly uncomfortable with the atmosphere, you’re better off finding a different facility.

Consider the timing

Always consider whether it is the right time for a particular procedure. There are procedures that should be performed only after your body has stopped changing and your weight has stabilized. For example, if you’re in the process of losing weight and you already have loose skin, it may be better to postpone skin removal until you’ve finished your weight loss. Similarly, complex procedures like mommy makeovers that have become so popular recently, which include a breast lift, liposuction and a tummy tuck, are high risk procedures, and they should be done, if at all, only after you have finished having children and breastfeeding.

Consider the risks

Don’t forget, a surgery, even if it’s a cosmetic procedure, is still surgery – and there is always room for complications. High-risk procedures, like a BBL, or any complex surgery where more procedures are being done at once, can often lead to severe complications, and they sometimes do more harm than good. You don’t know how your body will react to the stress, drugs and the whole healing process. Some people can only handle small procedures, because of their physiognomy, e.g., their body scars easily or they are slow healers. Whether your procedure requires general anesthesia, or local sedation, you’re still at risk of complications. It’s essential that you consult your surgeon about the risks of each procedure, and that you understand the plan of action if complications do arise.

Be patient with recovery

The more complex your procedure is, the longer it’ll take to heal. It is crucial that you’re patient with your body. It may take weeks, even months for the swelling to go down and only then will you be able to see what your end result will be. Sometimes, your surgeon must assess how your body reacts to surgery, and certain procedures have to be done gradually. This only prolongs your recovery, so think carefully before you have it done, since this only means you’ll have to take more time away from work and family responsibilities.

Remember, even cosmetic procedures come with their risks, so make sure that you have found the best surgeon possible to guide you through the process. Be realistic with your expectations, and only have procedures which are necessary for you to feel better.