Lots of people have physical feature’s that they wish they could change. Whether it be a nose they think is too big, breasts they think are too small or buttocks they think are too flat. Some people wish that they could look more youthful while others think they look too young and want to be taken more seriously.
Although not everyone will decide to have plastic surgery, cosmetic surgery is capable of changing or correcting many of the concerns people have about their bodies. Deciding to have surgery isn’t something to do in an instant or something you choose on the fly. If you are thinking surgery might be right for you, there are several things to consider choosing the most appropriate procedure.
First Things First: Is Surgery Right for You?
When it comes to deciding on having surgery, there are plenty of factors to consider. Your specific concern might be something you can change through plastic surgery, but there might also be a minimally-invasive procedure available that will do the job. For example, if you’re concerned about facial aging, a facelift might be the right procedure for you. But if all you’re dealing with at the moment are a few lines and wrinkles, filling those in with an injectable filler or treating them with Botox might be more appropriate.
Your schedule and lifestyle can also clue you in as to whether or not surgery is right for you. Most surgical procedures require at least a week for recovery. That means you’ll need to put your life on hold for at least a week — no work, no after-school activities, no book clubs. Beyond that first week, you’re likely to need up to a month to fully recuperate. During that first month, you’ll be asked to avoid things like working out at the gym, swimming and in many cases, sex.
What Are Your Goals?
If you have the time for surgery and non-surgical alternatives don’t seem like an appropriate option, it’s time to start thinking about your goals to help you zero in on the surgery that’s right for you.
For example, there are multiple surgeries that change the size and shape of the breasts. If you’re considering breast surgery, you’ll want to ask yourself if you want to go bigger (breast augmentation) or smaller (breast reduction). Maybe you’re fine with the size of your breasts, but want to change their position or shape. In that case, a breast lift might be the best option for you.
Another thing to consider is whether or not combining surgeries will help you reach your goals. It’s common for people to combine a breast augmentation with breast lift, for example. Facial surgeries are also often combined to give a person a more refreshed and rejuvenated look overall.
Talk to People Who Have Had Plastic Surgery
As you start to narrow down your list of procedures, you might want to try finding people who have had the surgery you’re considering so you can ask them about it. You can find people online through a website such as RealSelf or ask friends if they know anyone who has had the surgery you’re thinking about.
You can learn a lot from people who’ve had plastic surgery. They can give you a better idea of what really happens after the procedure, how long it really took before they saw their results and whether or not they thought the surgery was worth it in the long run.
Talk to a Plastic Surgeon
Along with choosing the right surgery, it’s important to find the right plastic surgeon to perform the procedure. The ideal surgeon is someone who is board-certified, has experience performing the procedure and who makes you feel at ease.
Scheduling a consultation with a surgeon gives you the chance to ask questions about the surgery and to get a professional’s perspective. It might be that the surgeon ends up recommending an alternative procedure to you or recommends postponing surgery based on your health or lifestyle.
While the decision to have plastic surgery is ultimately up to you, a qualified surgeon can offer you professional insight and advice.
In Houston, Texas, Dr. Paul Vitenas is a board certified plastic surgeon with nearly three decades of experience. He’s available to discuss your concerns with you and guide you to the most appropriate procedure. To learn more, call 281-484-0088 to schedule a consultation today.
