10 Questions to Ask Yourself Before Going Under the Knife
The best candidates for cosmetic enhancements do a bit of self-reflecting to identify their goals and motivations. Before you walk through a Scottsdale plastic surgeon's doors, you need to ask yourself some important questions and answer with honesty.
To start, here are ten questions to ask yourself before getting plastic surgery:
Complete transparency is non-negotiable when consulting with a plastic surgeon. If you smoke cigarettes and have no intentions of pausing or quitting, have a bleeding disorder or health condition that requires ongoing treatments, or love the occasional drink-ing binge, hiding these health factors from your surgeon can jeopardize your results and safety.
In addition, if you have body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) or other related conditions, undergoing surgery may do more harm than good to your mental health.
The outcome, advantages, and healing process tied to your procedure rely on your willingness to disclose your lifestyle choices and general health candidly. #HonestyIsKey
Think about what you want to gain from cosmetic surgery. Do you want bigger boobs, a slimmer waistline, or perhaps both? Your answer to these questions will determine which procedures will meet your goals – from breast augmentation surgery, a tummy tuck, or a complete mommy makeover.
In the words of literary genius William Shakespeare, "Expectation is the root of all heartache." You can avoid unnecessary disappointment by assessing your expectations and setting realistic outcomes. Although cosmetic procedures have made remarkable advancements, they are not instant remedies for all concerns.
For example, plastic surgeon Troy Pittman, MD, said, "I had a [patient] who had no lips. She wanted Restalyn® put in her lips for a full look, but she had a picture of Delila Rinna, Lisa Rinna's daughter, and she basically wanted something totally undeliverable." In other words, no matter how talented your surgeon is, some things are unattainable depending on your baseline anatomy. Pushing forward may only lead to unsatisfactory results or regret.
Doing your research, being honest with yourself, and consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon are invaluable resources to understand your desired procedure's potential gains and limitations.
External influences such as societal norms, cultural ideals, and the opinions of others can pressure someone into getting work done. Therefore, before going under the knife or receiving fillers, pause and determine the driving force behind your decision. Proceed if your choice stems from your personal goals, self-perception, and genuine desire for self-improvement. On the other hand, if your decision is due to a momentary life crisis or the influence of a "friend," "significant other," or general "beauty standards," a reevaluation may be in order.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, remember the following:
Don't rush. Take the time to research, consult with multiple surgeons if necessary, and trust your instincts. Your choice of surgeon is instrumental in achieving your desired results.
Surgical risks vary depending on your chosen procedure, your health, and your surgeon's skills (which is why we mentioned working with a specialist in your area of interest). Common risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, anesthesia complications, and poor outcomes. Discuss these risks in detail with your surgeon during the consultation.
In addition, as stated in question #1, your medical history matters. Pre-existing health problems may increase your risk of complications. If you have an acute or chronic condition demanding ongoing treatments or medications, be honest with your surgeon. Doing so does not necessarily make you unfit for surgery. Instead, your surgeon can advise you accordingly and collaborate to find solutions or alternatives. The same goes for any supplements you may be taking.
Even if you're strong and independent, the post-op recovery phase is not the time to brave it solo. You might require assistance with driving and moving around, caring for children and pets, managing medications, and preparing meals for 1 to 2 days. Depending on the extent of your procedure, you might also need support with basic activities like going to the bathroom or showering for the first time after surgery.
Exhausting yourself following an invasive procedure can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Enlist the help of a responsible adult for your safety.
Plastic surgery is a self-care approach and an investment in yourself. Like any investment, it comes with costs. You must consider the upfront surgical fees and potential additional expenses, such as preoperative tests, postoperative medications, and follow-up appointments.
To determine if you can afford the procedure, create a comprehensive budget that includes all associated costs. Be realistic about your financial situation and avoid stretching yourself too thin. If the expenses are beyond your current means, consider exploring financing options, payment plans, or saving strategies. However, keep in mind that you should never compromise your financial wellness or go into debt for elective cosmetic procedures.
Reading this might help: 5 Foolproof Ways to Save Money for Plastic Surgery
Answering the questions above will help you determine if there's anything else you should know before having plastic surgery in Scottsdale, Arizona. For example, if you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it will help to understand the different types of breast implants and whether your results would look better with a mastopexy.
Once you ask and answer these questions, your next move is to consult and collaborate with a board-certified plastic surgeon to make the most informed and empowered decision. Dr. Aldo Guerra and Dr. Scott Ogley are reputable plastic surgeons specializing in face, breast, and body procedures. Request a free consultation today.
1. "Am I in denial about my health?"
Complete transparency is non-negotiable when consulting with a plastic surgeon. If you smoke cigarettes and have no intentions of pausing or quitting, have a bleeding disorder or health condition that requires ongoing treatments, or love the occasional drink-ing binge, hiding these health factors from your surgeon can jeopardize your results and safety.
In addition, if you have body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) or other related conditions, undergoing surgery may do more harm than good to your mental health.
The outcome, advantages, and healing process tied to your procedure rely on your willingness to disclose your lifestyle choices and general health candidly. #HonestyIsKey
2. "What are my goals?"
Think about what you want to gain from cosmetic surgery. Do you want bigger boobs, a slimmer waistline, or perhaps both? Your answer to these questions will determine which procedures will meet your goals – from breast augmentation surgery, a tummy tuck, or a complete mommy makeover.
3. "Are my expectations realistic?"
In the words of literary genius William Shakespeare, "Expectation is the root of all heartache." You can avoid unnecessary disappointment by assessing your expectations and setting realistic outcomes. Although cosmetic procedures have made remarkable advancements, they are not instant remedies for all concerns.
For example, plastic surgeon Troy Pittman, MD, said, "I had a [patient] who had no lips. She wanted Restalyn® put in her lips for a full look, but she had a picture of Delila Rinna, Lisa Rinna's daughter, and she basically wanted something totally undeliverable." In other words, no matter how talented your surgeon is, some things are unattainable depending on your baseline anatomy. Pushing forward may only lead to unsatisfactory results or regret.
Doing your research, being honest with yourself, and consulting a board-certified plastic surgeon are invaluable resources to understand your desired procedure's potential gains and limitations.
4. "Am I considering cosmetic enhancement for myself?"
External influences such as societal norms, cultural ideals, and the opinions of others can pressure someone into getting work done. Therefore, before going under the knife or receiving fillers, pause and determine the driving force behind your decision. Proceed if your choice stems from your personal goals, self-perception, and genuine desire for self-improvement. On the other hand, if your decision is due to a momentary life crisis or the influence of a "friend," "significant other," or general "beauty standards," a reevaluation may be in order.
5. "Am I working with the best plastic surgeon for the job?"
When choosing a plastic surgeon, remember the following:
- Credentials matter: Are they board-certified by a reputable plastic surgery board, like the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Certification affirms that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and met stringent standards.
- Experience and specialization matter: Different surgeons excel in various areas. Ensure your surgeon specializes in the procedure you desire. For instance, here at Guerra Plastic Surgery Center, our award-winning and board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Aldo Guerra, has a track record for successful breast augmentation, revision, and exchange surgeries. Meanwhile, our own Dr. Scott Ogley is an aesthetic fellowship-trained surgeon specializing in face and body procedures. Choosing a surgeon who specializes in your area of interest is more likely to deliver the results you want.
- Reputation matters: Read reviews, seek recommendations, and ask for before-and-after photos of previous patients. This will provide insight into the surgeon's skill and patient satisfaction.
- Communication matters: A good plastic surgeon will take time to understand your goals, answer your questions, and help you establish realistic expectations. A surgeon who values open and honest communication is more likely to provide a positive surgical experience.
Don't rush. Take the time to research, consult with multiple surgeons if necessary, and trust your instincts. Your choice of surgeon is instrumental in achieving your desired results.
6. "Do I understand the risks?"
Surgical risks vary depending on your chosen procedure, your health, and your surgeon's skills (which is why we mentioned working with a specialist in your area of interest). Common risks include infection, bleeding, scarring, anesthesia complications, and poor outcomes. Discuss these risks in detail with your surgeon during the consultation.
In addition, as stated in question #1, your medical history matters. Pre-existing health problems may increase your risk of complications. If you have an acute or chronic condition demanding ongoing treatments or medications, be honest with your surgeon. Doing so does not necessarily make you unfit for surgery. Instead, your surgeon can advise you accordingly and collaborate to find solutions or alternatives. The same goes for any supplements you may be taking.
7. "Is there anyone who can help me during the recovery period?"
Even if you're strong and independent, the post-op recovery phase is not the time to brave it solo. You might require assistance with driving and moving around, caring for children and pets, managing medications, and preparing meals for 1 to 2 days. Depending on the extent of your procedure, you might also need support with basic activities like going to the bathroom or showering for the first time after surgery.
Exhausting yourself following an invasive procedure can increase the risk of infection and other complications. Enlist the help of a responsible adult for your safety.
8. "Can I Afford It?"
Plastic surgery is a self-care approach and an investment in yourself. Like any investment, it comes with costs. You must consider the upfront surgical fees and potential additional expenses, such as preoperative tests, postoperative medications, and follow-up appointments.
To determine if you can afford the procedure, create a comprehensive budget that includes all associated costs. Be realistic about your financial situation and avoid stretching yourself too thin. If the expenses are beyond your current means, consider exploring financing options, payment plans, or saving strategies. However, keep in mind that you should never compromise your financial wellness or go into debt for elective cosmetic procedures.
Reading this might help: 5 Foolproof Ways to Save Money for Plastic Surgery
9. "Is there anything else I should know about?"
Answering the questions above will help you determine if there's anything else you should know before having plastic surgery in Scottsdale, Arizona. For example, if you are considering breast augmentation surgery, it will help to understand the different types of breast implants and whether your results would look better with a mastopexy.
10. "I have my answers. What's next?"
Once you ask and answer these questions, your next move is to consult and collaborate with a board-certified plastic surgeon to make the most informed and empowered decision. Dr. Aldo Guerra and Dr. Scott Ogley are reputable plastic surgeons specializing in face, breast, and body procedures. Request a free consultation today.
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