Nov 12, 2007 8:08 pm US/Central
21 Thing To Consider Before Having Plastic Surgery
(CBS 11 / TXA 21)
Every year more than 15 million people have plastic surgery, yet few ask their doctors critical questions.
ASK YOURSELF:
1. Who am I doing it for?
2. What do I really want to change? Are those expectations realistic? What are the limitations of the surgery? What if something goes wrong?
3. Am I a good candidate for surgery? (
Click here for an article on plastic surgery candidates from PlasticSurgery.org)
FACELIFTS:
4. Your tissue loosens up the older you get, so age can play a factor in the kind of surgery you get.
5. The four hour surgery removes excess fat and tightens muscles.
6. A week after surgery, there will be some swelling.
7. The incisions are hidden.
8. After a week or two, you can wear makeup again.
FACIAL IMPLANTS:
9. Facial implants can be done at any age to improve the shape of the face.
10. Cheekbone implants can make a face look fuller.
11. The surgery takes about an hour and can cost almost $3,000.
12. You can be out and about in three days.
13. Facial implants last forever.
14. There is some anesthesia or sedation.
15. Damage could be done to the nerves that control movement in your face and noticeable scares could appear.
16. Cosmetic surgery is considered elective, and your insurance will not cover it. But, there are companies that will set up a payment plan.
HOW TO FIND A DOCTOR
The death of Kanye West's mother brings to light the importance of researching your surgeon before going under the knife. Her cosmetic surgery was allegedly preformed by a doctor who was facing disciplinary action by the state medical board.
17. Accept no substitutes. Your plastic surgeon has to be board certified (
American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery).
18. Ask a lot of questions. For example, ask how often the doctor performs the procedure. What are the risk factors involved with the procedure?
19. Reputation is important. Search thoroughly, compare different plastic surgeons and talk to their former patients. What is the doctor's success rate with the operation and safety record regarding complications?
20. How do you feel about the surgeon and the office staff? Follow your gut instincts, they will serve you well.
21. Call 1-888-4Plastic or visit
plasticsurgery.org for a referral to a board certified member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.