13 Apr 4 Things Your Plastic Surgeon Looks For Before Performing A Procedure
Cosmetic Surgery Is Not For Everyone
Cosmetic surgeries improve the patient’s overall appearance for medical or aesthetic reasons. Thanks to factors like accessibility and acceptance of cosmetic surgery, these surgeries are rising in popularity. Cosmetic surgeries have several benefits, such as an improved appearance and confidence that can last for years. At the same time, with surgery comes risks and complications. Surgeons understand these procedures are not for everyone and turn away thousands of patients every year. A plastic surgeon looks for these 4 traits as the basic requirements before operating.
1. A healthy patient
Cosmetic surgeries, even minimally invasive ones, involve factors like anesthesia, blood loss, and recovery. The ideal candidate must be healthy enough to undergo cosmetic surgery. Conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and bleeding disorders can all cause complications. The surgeon will also look for traits that signal a healthy patient. Does the patient exercise and have a healthy diet? Are there any signs of substance abuse? The patient’s health will determine if the surgeon proceeds with surgery.
2. A prepared patient
A cosmetic procedure is only as effective as the recovery period. Most surgeries carry an extended downtime. Breast augmentation, for instance, needs about 4-6 weeks for a full recovery. The ideal patient must understand that recovery will take some time and must be prepared. Patients should be willing to follow the doctor’s instructions for pain management, wound care, and follow-up appointments. Patients eager to take the time for recovery should have better outcomes.
3. A realistic patient
A common concern of surgeons for patients is the possibility of cosmetic surgery addiction. This addiction often starts from having an unrealistic expectation of the procedure. This behavior causes patients to seek out further procedures, potentially leading to body dysmorphic disorder. Cosmetic surgery can improve the appearance of aging. However, the body is still not immune to aging and genetics. An ideal patient has a realistic expectation of what cosmetic surgery can do. These patients have traits that indicate the goal is for subtle yet effective changes in appearance.
4. An emotionally sound patient
Cosmetic surgery does not require a psychiatric evaluation to determine the patient’s reasoning for surgery. However, surgeons will look for specific emotional and mental traits before proceeding. People with a history of depression and anxiety may need to re-evaluate the motive for surgery first. Surgeons will also look for signs like surgery for the sole purpose of social media or to keep a spouse. The ideal patient should comfortably express why the surgery is necessary during a consultation with the surgeon.
A safe, successful surgery
A board-certified plastic surgeon understands that surgery is not for everyone. The surgeon’s goal is to do no physical or mental harm. Plastic surgeons will assess the patient’s physical condition and lifestyle through tests and consultation. Through consultations, surgeons will also look for emotional or mental red flags. The goal is for a patient to have a smooth surgery, a smooth recovery, and be satisfied with the results.