There are many things to take into consideration when choosing a surgeon. First and foremost, make sure he is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery…this indicates advanced training in aesthetic plastic surgery. Check with your state’s medical board, or the state you plan to have the surgery in, to see if the doctor has ever had any disciplinary action taken against him. If you know people who have had plastic surgery, ask them for recommendations, but ultimately, choose someone you feel comfortable with. Don’t go with someone you don’t because your friend really liked him. Be wary of surgeons that try to make you feel like you should have multiple procedures or seem to offer unrealistic results.
Price will certainly factor in and it can vary greatly depending on the doctor and their location. Plastic surgeons in Des Moines will probably have lower fees than ones in Chicago. Take your time with the selection process. Take advantage of free consultations to meet with various doctors. Make sure you choose someone that is happy to answer your questions and address your concerns. While your choice of doctor will likely be influenced by your budget, this is not the place to skimp and try to get the cheapest option possible.
Is Plastic Surgery Safe?
Any surgical procedure carries a risk, and cosmetic ones are no exceptions. The best way to reduce the risk of complications is working with a qualified doctor. You can also maximize your chances of a good outcome by following all of your doctor’s pre-and-post operative instructions to the letter. It is important you fully disclose all health information to your doctor so he is aware of anything that could cause issues. There are some insurance products that offer to cover any treatment related to plastic surgery complications—this may be something worth considering if you are concerned about negative outcomes and additional costs to fix them.
Is There Anything I Should Refrain From in Preparation for My Procedure?
There are a few general guidelines that apply for most procedures, and your doctor may also make additional recommendations. Be sure to follow all of them. If you smoke, you should stop at least six weeks before. Smoking can greatly impair wound healing and may increase the risk of certain complications. At least 10 days before your procedure, stop using aspirin or other products with blood-thinning properties to cut down on unnecessary bleeding. You should reschedule your appointment if you develop a fever, cold, rash or open wound prior to surgery to cut down on the risk of complications.