As I have discussed many times on my blog and my website, plastic surgery should not be taken lightly, and many factors need to be considered before making a final decision about plastic surgery in Phoenix. Here are a few topics that I feel are important to the decision-making process.
First, I recommend that you do some basic online research before seeing a plastic surgeon for the first time. Having some general information about what procedures are available, finding out whether they address your specific issues, and perhaps seeing some before-and-after photos will help prepare you for a visit to a plastic surgeon. Having a basic understanding of your desired procedure prior to a consultation will help to focus your questions, and it will allow you to absorb more details and more new information. On the other hand, there can be a lot of misleading information online, as well, so keep an open mind and try to stick to professional websites such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ (ASPS) website. Try to avoid celebrity-focused or sensationalized plastic surgery websites.
Once you have an idea of what type of surgery interests you, think carefully about both the potential benefits of surgery and the possible short-term and long-term risks of surgery. Once again, the ASPS website is a great resource for this kind of information. Some of these details will be presented during your initial consultation. In addition, most plastic surgeons will provide an extensive list of risks and benefits before you undergo any surgery.
Another consideration is your health. You should be in good physical and emotional shape before having elective surgery. This includes eating well and exercising, avoiding smoking and recreational drugs, and avoiding situations that could cause significant anxiety or depression before surgery. Any major health issues should also be managed carefully before surgery. Your surgeon can help you improve your health (in conjunction with your primary care physician and any appropriate medical specialists) to make sure the surgery proceeds as safely and smoothly as possible.
Finally, find a surgeon you trust – one you can have a good relationship with throughout your surgical journey. Make sure your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and is an upstanding member of the community and the state medical board. Look at the surgeon’s CV (resume) to check his or her education and experience, and choose a surgeon who has extensive experience in the procedure you are seeking, whether it be breast augmentation or a tummy tuck in Phoenix. View many before-and-after photos to determine the quality of the doctor’s work. Also, realize that every surgeon will have a somewhat different opinion on how best to treat your concerns. This is normal, since there is not one “right way” to do any given procedure in plastic surgery. You may wish to see a few surgeons for different opinions prior to making a final decision about surgery.
Ultimately, if you plan carefully, take good care of yourself and do your research, you will likely be very happy with the outcome of your plastic surgery procedure.
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