Finding the Perfect Face: 5 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Getting Plastic Surgery
In 2016, Americans spent $16 billion on plastic surgery and non-invasive procedures.
That was then, this is now, and with the recent boost to the American economy, beauty by the surgeon’s expertise is more accessible than ever.
Ordinary people, not only celebrities, want cuter noses and contoured derrières. And talking about it is no longer taboo.
Celebrities dish about the numerous procedures they’ve had, and some devote entire blogs to their lives before and after surgery.
Maybe you’re thinking, why not me? There’s no reason why you shouldn’t unless a doctor says you can’t.
But do your due diligence before plastic surgery starting with these five questions.
What Can I Afford?
Consider your financial situation and take an honest inventory of your current budget and savings. Then, calculate the estimated cost for the surgery, after-care, and potential unpaid time off work.
The cost of plastic surgery varies depending on the procedure. You’ll pay much more for the trendy mommy makeover than for another popular approach, a nostril reduction.
In most cases, health insurance won’t cover plastic surgery unless it’s considered reconstructive or necessary for health reasons. Discuss insurance coverage with your doctor’s office. Be prepared to cover 100% of the bill for your procedure.
If your budget falls short, explore these financing options:
- Personal loan
- Home equity loan
- Personal credit card
- Medical credit card
- Retirement account
- Payment plan through your doctor’s office
Once you’ve figured out whether you can afford surgery, think about why you want it and what you hope to get out of it.
What Do I Expect?
Most patients want surgery because they feel something about their physical appearance needs improvement. For example, maybe they dislike the size of their nose or want larger (or smaller) breasts.
When a person lives most of their life feeling unattractive because of a perceived flaw in their appearance, getting rid of the flaw surgically sounds like a dream come true.
You have your motivations and expectations. Think about these questions before you meet with your doctor for the first time:
- Why do I want this?
- What change do I think surgery will make in my life?
Deciding to have elective or voluntary surgery is intensely personal. However, understanding your expectations before plastic surgery and sharing them with your doctor helps you prepare for a successful outcome.
Am I Realistic?
The surgery results can be subtle enough that only you know you’ve had a procedure. But they can also be so dramatic no one recognizes you—at first.
Results depend on two things:
- The surgeon’s skill
- Your facial features and proportions
Don’t be disappointed if you can’t have your favorite celebrity’s lip implants or cheek enhancements. Not all procedures are appropriate for every patient.
Let your doctor help you set realistic expectations. And listen to them when they tell you about potential risks.
What Are The Risks?
All surgical procedures have certain risks, including anesthesia and post-op infection issues. Plastic surgery has its own set of risks, which include but are not limited to:
- Scarring
- Nerve damage
- Bruising
- Blood clots
- Poor cosmetic outcome
Instead of reading horror stories online, or listening to third-party rumors before plastic surgery, listen to your doctor. If you’ve chosen your surgeon wisely, your risks are already lowered.
But you can minimize risks even more if you’re in good health.
Am I Healthy Enough?
Aside from picking the best surgeon, your being healthy is the most significant risk reducer.
Don’t hide things from your doctor. If you have diabetes or have some other health condition, be honest. Certain medical conditions may mean you can’t have surgery at this time.
If you’re a smoker, quit. If you eat nothing but junk, quit—people who don’t smoke and eat a healthy diet heal faster and have less scarring.
Enough about developing a healthy lifestyle before plastic surgery or any other type can’t be said.
Before Plastic Surgery and After
Asking questions about cost and risks prepares you for the practical side of surgery. Understanding your expectations vs. what your doctor can realistically do for you prepares you for the emotional side.
You’re ready now more than ever.
We have an entire archive of tips that can help before plastic surgery and when you’re ready to face the world. Click here for inspiring articles on topics ranging from health to finance.
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With over 20+ years of experience in a variety of corporate and entrepreneurial environments, Diana has developed a great understanding of Marketing Strategy, Brand Development, Customer Success, Public Relations and Management. Her internal drive for developing others and external brands, has allowed her to work in some of the largest cities in the world including Milan, Paris, NY, Mexico, and the Middle East. This experience has been fundamental to Diana’s success and ability to communicate cross-culturally.
