Top Things To Consider When Wanting To Have A Cosmetic Procedure

Are you considering cosmetic procedures or even some noninvasive cosmetic treatments? With all modern-day technologies, many (not just the Hollywood movie stars) are considering going under the knife, getting fillers and other injectables like botox, even some noninvasive procedures like CoolSculpting.

However, many are just diving in before doing their research! Don't believe me, tune into the TV show Botched, where you can see botched cosmetic procedures thanks to unqualified, so call doctors corrected by some highly qualified surgeons who are on the TV show.

So before you consider any type of cosmetics procedures, treatments, or plastic surgeries, make sure you go through this checklist!

Top 7 Things To Consider When Wanting To Have A Cosmetic Procedure

Set Realistic Expectations When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure
While cosmetic procedures can enhance your appearance, which could ultimately boost your confidence, it is not end all fix all for any low self-esteem issues you may have. It is true that some procedures can boost your self-confidence, however it is only part of the picture, as it is not going to solve your job hunting problem, dating issues, depression, etc. And a qualified plastic surgeon will tell you this and may ask some uncomfortable questions. So instead of getting defensive, answer the questions honestly, as you may not even realize your true intentions.  

Selecting A Board Certified Plastic Surgeon When Considering A Cosmetic Procedure
This is much easier said than done. Think about all of the botched procedures; more than likely, most people thought they did their research and worked with someone with a board certification. But this does not mean they are good at their job. The search for potential surgeons needs to be a lengthy one. Not one day you wake up and think, I want to get a tummy tuck or my nose done this month.  

If it a surgical procedure like a nose job, do your research by looking for a rhinoplasty expert. This is not just what you see on a website, as it is not like a Dr. is going to share botched photos or promote negative reviews. Research all reviews, not just ones on their website, look at the number of reviews, check out their social media page, google my business page, ask around town for referrals, and the best place is to visit is RealSelf.  

Visit RealSelf Website For Reviews On Cosmetic Procedures
I love the Realself website, it is a great plastic surgeon review forum. I found it a few years ago when working for a doctor. They offer tons of resources, answered questions from people considering procedures, doctors' inputs, and honest reviews from patients reviewing Realself doctors.

Another great thing about this website is their RealSelf Verified. It will show a blue check mark next to a doctor’s name in their profile, signifying they meet or exceed RealSelf's high trust, transparency standard, and have high patient satisfaction.

Be Prepared For Your Consultation With A Plastic Surgeon
Like anything significant in life, you need planning, and this involves questions for the plastic surgeon even debunking any myths about plastic surgery you may have and more. As not only will the Dr. be interviewing you, you need to be interviewing the plastic surgeon. And yes, some may be uncomfortable asking some of these questions, but it is better than ending up a botched TV candidate.

Some important questions to ask during your cosmetic surgery consult:

1. Am I a good candidate for this procedure?
2. Is it the right choice for my body and my goals?
3. How many of these procedures do you personally perform?
4. Ask about the surgical facilities. Some could be in the office, others in an operating room.
5. Will you be the one that performs this procedure?
6. What are the risks?
7. What happens if I do not like the end result?
8. The type of anesthesia?
9. What is the recovery period?

Make Sure You Understand The Cosmetic Procedure
Many have misguided pieces of information and what to expect from a particular procedure. I will use CoolSculpting, for example. CoolSculpting is promoted as a method for fat reduction. What it is not is a procedure for overweight people to lose weight. This noninvasive procedure is actually recommended for people at their ideal weight; who have some stubborn body fat they can't get rid of by working out, yes I said working out. You need to be healthy and NOT overweight and following this lifestyle after the procedure! Bet you did not know that, did you?

Oh, and always ask for the potential side effects and how common they are, as there are side effects like paradoxical adipose hyperplasia (PAH) a nasty side effect with Coolscupting making you larger instead of smaller.

Cosmetic Procedures: Do It For Yourself, Not Others
A lot of females consider breast augmentation, for example, because their boyfriend suggested it. On the same token, never NOT do something because your husband or boyfriend doesn't approve, as it is not his body. Make sure you are doing it for yourself and you only. This is why I highly suggest not asking your friends for their opinions.

Budget For The Expense Of A Cosmetic Procedure
You need to be thinking about the financial side of your decision as, yes, some cosmetic procedures are costly, especially the ones that require anesthesia. And guess what, they are not covered by insurance. And this is where many try to cut corners, search for bargain deals, go out of the country and not work with an American board doctors, and end up with botched results. Cosmetic treatments and procedures should not be done with the bargain shopping approach.

SO HOW CAN I AFFORD THIS? Many may not know that most plastic surgeons offer financial assistance, so in your consultation, ask about these. This is like any type of loan, so your credit plays a significant part.

In conclusion, one of the doctors on Botched said it best, “Cosmetic surgery is something you do for yourself—not for a spouse, partner or parent,” “Your body is forever. Treat it preciously.”

Top Four Myths About Plastic Surgery

There are many common myths about plastic surgery and beauty for that matter.  Which is why in this blog, we like to educate and share tips on all things beauty, and this includes cosmetic procedures.

For this post, I have partnered up with some professionals, to help share and debunk the "Top Four Myths About Plastic Surgery." But I still recommend that you consult with someone in the medical field as I am not a medical professional.

So without further ado, my top Four Myths About Plastic Surgery!

Myth 1: Cosmetic Surgery Is All About Vanity
When most people hear the word plastic surgery, they often think of a breast augmentation or a facelift.  But the truth is plastic surgery is more than just volumptious breasts and looking younger.  See some of the real reasons people consider a cosmetic procedure below.
 
Confidence:
A lot of people consider a cosmetic procedure because of a life-long dream to correct that one thing about them that has seeped away at their confidence. Like a crooked nose from playing a sport or face scar, from their childhood.

Corrective:
There are procedures that a plastic surgeon can perform that is cosmetically corrective. Meaning procedures, whether surgical or nonsurgical that can help to amend something that is not fixable with conventional approaches. Like when a diet doesn't work for weight loss or a face cream for premature aging. They seek something like, CoolSculpting or Botox.

Comfort:
Plastic surgery can also be about making a life situation more comfortable. Let's take a very large bust, for example. Those that are top-heavy can end up having significant back problems, even severe discomfort. So the chance to have a breast reduction can help a person to live a more active, pain-free life.

Reconstructive:
What some people do not realize is that a lot of plastic surgeons can help with correcting birth defects like a cleft palate. And for a friend of mine who had breast cancer, a plastic surgeon helped her with some post-cancer breast reconstruction.

To sum it up, the right plastic surgeon is one that cares about the overall results after surgery, not just the aesthetics. Which is why, before any procedure, there is always a consultation.



Myth 2: All Plastic Surgeons Are Qualified
The sad truth is that not all plastic surgeons out there are scrupulous or even qualified. Some will prey on people’s insecurities and see it as an easy way to make money from them while promising life-changing procedures.

But even small procedures carry risks, bigger ones even more so - just take a look at these butt implant videos as an example.

That’s why it’s crucial to find a plastic surgeon who is licensed and certified.  And don’t just take their word for it or go by the framed certificate on the wall, do your research!

This includes:

• Looking at their qualifications as not all plastic surgery board certifications are the same.
• Look at their online presence, like social media.
• Do they have an up to date website?
• Always ask for before and after photos.
• What type of reviews do they have?
• More importantly, if you have a trusted friend who has gone to one, ask them about their experience. 

Another place I highly suggest is going to the RealSelf community. This is an online site that reveals the real story about each procedure and provides everything from before and after photos and stories posted by real people who've undergone a procedure, to forum discussions and doctor answers to your questions.

Bottom line, like anything we do in life, you need to do your research, especially when it comes to your body.

Myth 3: Only The Rich Can Afford Plastic Surgery
Although this may have once been the case, nowadays there are lots of options open for anyone who wants to have a cosmetic procedure.  And let's be honest if it were only for the rich and famous, there wouldn't be that many plastic surgeons.

In most cases, cosmetic surgery is considered elective surgery, and it is not covered under insurance, leaving most to pay with cash or put it on a credit card.  Plastic surgeons want to make themselves available to all, which is why, some of them offer 3rd party finance options, like through CareCredit.

Others also offer a discounted rate for specific procedures throughout the year, which is why it is a good thing to follow someone on social media, or sign up for their newsletter.  Better yet, sign up for a Reward Program like Brillant Distinctions, which is excellent for those who are considering Botox, Latisse, or fillers like Juvederm.

 
Myth 4: Liposuction Is Guaranteed For Permanent Weight Loss
While liposuction is a highly effective procedure, when it comes to getting rid of unwanted fat in areas of the body, your surgeon will tell you that the fat may come back after you’ve had surgery.

Lipo is not a band-aid to permanent weight loss! To maintain a healthy weight, you must live a healthy lifestyle, to include a well-balanced diet and exercise.

So there you have it beauties, our top four myths about plastic surgery debunked.

And while many of the myths above may have been talking about cosmetic. A lot of these apply to many medical procedures. Which means at the end of the day, having any medical procedure needs careful thought and planning. You want to make sure that you are getting the work done for the right reasons with a qualified medical professional.

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