According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) annual report, there has been an increase in the number of cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. The report shows that in 2015 there were approximately 15.9 million cosmetic procedures that were done. Of all the cosmetic procedures that were undertaken in the same year, breast augmentation tops the list, followed by liposuction, nose reshaping, eyelid surgery, and a tummy tuck in that order. Interestingly, 92% of all the cosmetic procedures were done on women with a vast majority aged between 40 to 54 years.

Careful what you wish for

The statistics above highlights a trend of perfection seekers who want to remove bits of fat from their waists and transfer it on their behinds or other sections of the body. Normal and healthy young girls are throwing their bras away and turning to doctors for silicon pumped breasts. As expected, health experts are quick to caution people against opting for invasive cosmetic procedures without having a full understanding of what is involved. “Lunchtime procedures” have become common because they involve less invasive techniques. Even then, people are advised to carefully rethink their options before going under the knife.

The terms “surgery gone wrong” or “botched surgery” are all too common. The truth of the matter is that nobody goes under the knife with the intention of coming out with a botched surgery. However, mistakes happen, and anything could go wrong. Even if the surgery is successful and goes as planned, people may not get the exact results that they were expecting.

What should you consider before a plastic surgery?

An important factor that patients need to consider is the expertise of the plastic surgeon. Are they competent enough to get the job done right? Keep in mind that this is a person that you are committing your body and your health to. You might want to start by researching and asking for their credentials. Word of mouth and personal reviews will also go a long way to helping you ascertain the doctor’s qualification.

Is there any risk involved? Any surgical procedure involves a certain degree of risk. Are you willing to take the risk? Is the result worth the risk? If you get answers to such questions, you will go into the surgical room informed and confident of what you are doing.

Another factor that you have to consider is the healing time of the surgical procedure. The timing should be done such that it will not hinder you from getting enough rest. If your surgery healing time is expected to be longer, organize yourself so that you do not fail to go to work or carry out your daily activities as usual.

Lastly, consider the financial implications that the procedure will have on you. An expensive plastic surgeon does not necessarily mean that they offer the best services. On the other hand, you should be wary of doctors who offer their services too cheaply. Be sure to know the cost that you will incur in going for regular checkups and medicines required after the surgery.

Information concerning plastic surgery is widely available. Make sure you are informed before making any decision.