Facial plastic surgery is a big decision, one that will change your life. No doubt you have fears about possible pain and undesirable outcomes. It’s best to keep in mind that there is more to plastic surgery than the operation: every step, from anesthesia to recovery, is important to consider. Your age and health, lifestyle and chronic medical issues are all important factors that must be weighed against the problem you wish to address, the size of the surgery and anticipated outcome.
For this reason, there is no simple answer to that question. The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for plastic surgery is to research your operation carefully, receive a thorough pre-operative evaluation, find the best facility and surgeon for your needs and pursue sound post-operative management.
What Are the Benefits of Plastic Surgery?
Correcting outstanding physical problems can greatly improve your self-confidence, mental and physical health, contribute to a more positive outlook in life and help to create more opportunities for you.
Depending on your medical needs, nasal and eye plastic surgery can considerably improve breathing (and overall health) and vision.
What are the Risks of Plastic Surgery
Each plastic or cosmetic surgical procedure has its own specific risks. When researching a plastic surgery procedure, check the risks specific to that procedure and compare it to your personal health history. Also know that in preparation for plastic or cosmetic surgery that there may be medication interactions with the anesthesia, and if you’ve had an invasive surgery recently or other procedure, you may need to wait before having this elective procedure.
Above all else, when speaking with a plastic surgeon during a consultation, be very honest and transparent about your medical history. Some things you may consider minor, like recent sun damage to your skin, can actually have a larger effect on your options than you may think.
Invasive Plastic Surgery Risks
An invasive procedure is one where the skin needs cut opened and closed to complete the surgery. Some of the general risks to all plastic surgeries are an unexpected reaction to anesthesia, chance of infection, potential scarring, excess bleeding, blood clotting, nerve damage, fluid buildup, separation at the incision site.
Most of the above listed items won’t happen if you closely follow the pre- and post-surgical recommendations from your surgeon. If any of these or other complications occur, immediately call your surgeon. If nobody is available to assist you and you’re experiencing a medical emergency, call 911.
Non-Invasive Plastic Surgery Risks
Plastic surgeons perform non-invasive procedures with injectable fillers like Botox, or they can utilize lasers for skin procedures. As these types of procedures become more and more popular, knowing the risks involved is essential. These include potential infection, granulomas, bruising, skin redness, and pain or irritation.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon
The best plastic surgeons will be realistic with you concerning benefits, risks and possible outcomes. It is not the surgeon’s role to tell you what you want to hear. Look for honesty and a willingness to listen. Your surgeon should also have their own questions before considering you as a candidate for plastic surgery.
Make sure your surgeon works in a style that matches your needs and aesthetic goals. In many ways, plastic surgery is considered to be an “art form”. You will be best served if your surgeon specializes in the procedures and results you are looking for.
Always make sure your practitioner maintains the highest quality of patient safety and care. As with any other medical practitioner, such as family doctor, it may take some time to find the best plastic surgeon for your needs and goals. Patience is essential to making sure your plastic surgery is a success.
Call Hair & Facial Plastics Institute
Our board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. James Aronovitz guides patients like you through the process of determining whether plastic surgery is right for them. Thousands of people from all around Michigan have trusted us for their facial plastic surgery and hair restoration needs. Call today to schedule a free consultation.