Millions of people are undergoing plastic surgery procedures to improve their appearance and look younger for their career objectives and their interpersonal relationships. Patients can choose from a wide range of techniques that can enhance the facial appearance or contours of the body. If you are thinking about plastic surgery to improve your appearance, here are 5 questions to ask your plastic surgeon to understand what you need to do to prepare for your procedure and what you can expect after it is completed.
1- How Many Times Have You Performed This Procedure in the Past?
Your surgeon should have experience in doing the particular procedure you are considering. The number of times the surgeon has performed the surgery ensures that they are familiar with problems that may arise during the procedure and can prepare to manage any complications if they occur.
2- Are You Board Certified?
Board certification is an important qualification in plastic surgery because it ensures that the health professional has received the required training and experience to do plastic surgery procedures safely and effectively. As a patient, you can feel confident that your surgeon’s ability has been evaluated and approved by experts in the field. The American Board of Plastic Surgery is the official organization that certifies professionals in the field of plastic surgery.
3- What Are the Risks and Complications Associated With This Procedure?
Every surgical procedure entails the risk of infection, blood clots, and problems with anesthesia. Your surgeon can explain the types of risks involved in your particular procedure and the complications that may sometimes occur as a result of the surgery. The surgeon can explain what they can do to minimize the risk and what care will be provided if a complication arises.
4- What Will My Recovery Be Like?
Recovery times can vary from one plastic surgery procedure to another. Generally, you can expect some swelling and bruising at the site of the surgery. You may have some discomfort in the first few days, but your surgeon will provide pain medications to keep you comfortable. In some cases, you may have bandages, drainage tubes or compression garments that will help with your recovery. Your doctor will explain what you should do with these items. You may be required to avoid lying flat down for a few days, avoid sun exposure, avoid smoking, and use medications to prevent infection or to reduce scarring at the site. Length of recovery periods can vary, depending on the procedure.
5- Can I See Before and After Pictures of This Procedure?
Most plastic surgeons can provide several before and after photos of procedures they have performed. Seeing these photos will help to ensure you have realistic expectations of what the surgery will do to alter your appearance. In this way, you can be sure your expectation of how the surgery will come out will match the outcome.
These questions can help you to better understand your part in your surgery and can ease your concerns about the process. In this way, you can feel better prepared and can have confidence in your plastic surgeon, as well as realistic expectations about the outcome of your procedure.