While cosmetic surgery is becoming increasingly popular, undergoing a procedure is still not a decision that should be taken lightly. There are many factors you should consider before going ‘under the knife,’ with your health, expectations, potential risks, and potential rewards just some of the hot topics amongst would-be cosmetic surgery patients.
Here we reveal seven questions you should ask yourself before investing in cosmetic surgery, whether you have your eye on a surgical procedure or a non-invasive treatment.
Why do you want to have a cosmetic procedure?
Defining why you want to change your appearance is a great starting point. Most patients want to improve their self-image to feel more confident and comfortable daily. Others may be pursuing surgery to look younger. Whatever the reason, it is important to take the time to think carefully about this decision rather than rushing into action without understanding the risks, recovery time, and consequences – both physical and financial.
Are you having surgery for yourself or someone else?
Whatever the reasons behind your chosen surgery, ensure you are doing it yourself and realistic about the outcome. Investing in cosmetic surgery to satisfy someone else is generally not recommended and won’t make you happy if it isn’t right for you personally.
Are you healthy enough to have surgery?
Before proceeding with surgery, you must ensure you are in a good place physically, mentally, and emotionally. Cosmetic surgery can put a lot of strain on your body and mind. Without being healthy and emotionally or mentally able enough to cope with its effects, you may find recovery long and hard.
You will be assessed before you are considered a good candidate for surgery. Be honest about your medical history and current state of mind to ensure a clear picture of your health can be established.
Do you know enough about the procedure?
Doing your research into your chosen cosmetic surgery is, of course, vital. While your surgeon will be on hand to advise on the particulars, seeking information from independent, reliable resources is another must, especially when it comes to the risks, recovery challenges, and results.
What could go wrong during and after surgery?
Every type of surgery, whether cosmetic or otherwise, can have its complications, so be clear on what could go wrong. Infection, necrosis, wound separation, fluid collections/abscesses and blood clots are common complications of cosmetic surgery. In particular, invasive surgeries involving making scalpel incisions and internal treatment – such as tummy tucks – can have more serious complications.
Meanwhile, non-invasive treatments such as Morpheus8 are deemed to be lower risk. What is Morpheus8, you ask; it’s a skin-tightening treatment that gently heats the skin using a hand-held device.
Are you being realistic about the outcome?
In the same breath, having a clear idea about the results you can expect from your chosen cosmetic procedure is a must. With this, it is important to recognize that while surgery could help improve a body part, you’ve never been happy with and boost your self-esteem, it won’t guarantee a better relationship, social life, or job.
Be realistic about what you can gain from cosmetic surgery to ensure it’s a quest for improvement and not perfection.
Have you considered the alternatives to surgery?
Cosmetic surgery isn’t always the answer. In many cases, alternatives may be explored, including diet changes, increased exercise, or a better skincare regime. Make sure you consider all your options before committing to surgery.
