3 questions to ask before committing to plastic surgery
July 9, 2013

If you read celebrity news, it may seem like the decision to undergo plastic surgery is as easy as choosing what to eat for dinner. However, going under the knife is not something that should be taken lightly, and you need to be 100 percent certain that you're making the right choice before signing up for a procedure. Here are a few questions you must consider before you head to the cosmetic surgery clinic.
Is this really what I want?
Unless you're getting reconstructive or reparative plastic surgery, you're likely considering a cosmetic procedure. Thousands of people book aesthetic surgeries every year, but before you join their ranks, make sure you actually want the procedure. If you feel like you're being pushed into the decision to get a breast augmentation or tummy tuck by a significant other, family member or friend, it's time to pump the brakes. Though you can certainly ask your loved ones for their input, the decision to go under the knife should be yours and yours alone.
Have I considered all of my options?
It's not uncommon for patients to get their hearts set on a certain procedure, but sometimes, there may be plastic surgeries that you aren't aware of that could better help you achieve your goals. For example, you may come to your cosmetic surgeon saying you want a tummy tuck to help you lose weight, not realizing that tummy tucks are actually about tightening skin, not shedding unwanted pounds (though liposuction may be a good alternative!).
Have I found a qualified plastic surgeon?
Imagine you're on your way to the emergency room with a broken arm. As you get out of the ambulance, someone approaches you and says they can fix your broken arm for a much better price if you'll go back to their office. Most people would say, "No way!" That's exactly how you should react to individuals who try to offer you discount plastic surgery. Before you agree to go under the knife, you must have evidence of your cosmetic surgeon's training and board-certification. Don't be afraid to ask about it during your consultation - if your doctor is qualified, he or she will have no issue showing you proof. Should an aesthetic surgeon refuse to answer your inquiries, it's time to move on to a more qualified individual.
The mission of the Aesthetic Society includes medical education, public education and patient advocacy. Plastic Surgery News Briefs are summaries of current stories found through various news and magazine outlets that relate to or mention plastic surgery and cosmetic procedures. The views expressed in these news articles do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Aesthetic Society, but are merely published as an educational service to our members and the general public. For additional information on these subjects and other plastic surgery related topics, please go to www.surgery.org
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The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, is recognized as the world's leading organization devoted entirely to aesthetic plastic surgery and cosmetic medicine of the face and body. The Aesthetic Society is comprised of over 2,600 Plastic Surgeons; Active Members are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (USA) or by the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and have extensive training in the complete spectrum of surgical and nonsurgical aesthetic procedures. International Active Members are certified by equivalent boards of their respective countries. All members worldwide adhere to a strict Code of Ethics and must meet stringent membership requirements.
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