There is nothing wrong with wanting to look your best; and for some, that can mean making changes in appearance through plastic surgery. The decision to have alterations done is not something you should take lightly. As with any surgery, there are positives and negatives associated with the procedures. Getting a clear picture of why you want to have plastic surgery can help with a more satisfactory outcome.
To Change, or Not to Change
Some individuals need plastic surgery to correct a defect or repair an injury. For example, surgical reconstruction of a cleft lip or palate is not necessarily a cosmetic enhancement decision. When the decision is a cosmetic elective, like breast augmentation, you want to be aware of the pros and cons of the surgery. Additionally, you need to be sure this is a change you want to make for yourself, not because of outside pressures.
Making a physical change to your body can be a move that boosts your self-confidence and helps you feel better about the skin you are in. That is, if this is a procedure that you have contemplated making for some time, and you have strong feelings about it for yourself. On the other hand, getting a procedure for the wrong reasons can have negative consequences in the long run.
Beauty is Only Skin Deep
That was a popular sentiment and song decades ago, but it still holds true today. Be honest with yourself about why you want to have plastic surgery. Are you “fixing” something you feel is flawed? Do you believe that this alteration will impress others? What is the underlying reason for the change – or is there one?
Certain changes, such as breast size or removing a hump in your nose, require surgery. There are other changes that could possibly be addressed through less invasive measures. For example, instead of opting for liposuction, a change of eating habits and a targeted exercise routine may produce the same results with less cost and more of a positive impact on your overall health. Of course, if that does not work, liposuction is still an option.
Weighing the Costs
With plastic surgery comes the costs of both time and money. Be sure to have a detailed conversation with your doctor about the risks involved in the surgery, and how much time you can expect to be out of commission. Some procedures may have a downtime of just a few days, while others could take weeks for you to recover sufficiently to return to normal activities.
Financial consideration needs to be taken into account as well. Plastic surgery is not inexpensive. Certain procedures can cost upwards of tens of thousands of dollars. Keep in mind that health insurance seldom covers the cost of elective surgeries. You do not want the cost of your procedure to negatively impact your ability to stay on top of your other financial obligations.
The Bottom Line
Plastic surgery can change a life for the better. Before you make such an important decision, be sure to give it ample thought. Speak with others who have had the procedure you are considering. Have an honest conversation with your doctor about your desires for the procedure, and get a full understanding of the pros and cons.
Be sure to enlist the services of a fully qualified plastic surgeon who has expertise in the procedure you are seeking. Contact Dr. Khosh and schedule a consultation appointment for more information about your desire for plastic surgery.
