Am I Ready? What to Consider Before Getting Facial Plastic Surgery

Because the effects of surgery on the face are so immediately visible to others, and because procedures often come with risks or limitations, there are important factors to consider long before going under the knife.

While patients have numerous resources available to guide them through the before, during, and after of surgery, there are questions they can ask themselves and their doctors before deciding to go ahead with a procedure.

Are My Expectations Realistic? 

One of the biggest misconceptions patients have about getting facial plastic surgery is that one procedure will make their face perfect, and that they will never be unsatisfied with their appearance again. It's critical that rather than aiming for perfection, patients go into surgery expecting improvement.

Additionally, patients should be prepared for the bruising, soreness, and swelling that immediately follow surgery, as well as for any necessary follow-up care—healing properly means a few weeks of avoiding direct sunlight and strenuous activity, and eating softer foods.

What's the Cost?

It's also important to consider the expenses that come with surgery, as medical insurances often don't cover elective cosmetic procedures. Whether a patient is interested in more minimally invasive treatments like injectable fillers, or full face and neck procedures like rhinoplasty, lifts, and liposuction, surgery can be a significant investment, making the decision of whether to go ahead with a procedure all the more important.

What are the Risks?

As with any surgery, facial procedures come with risks. Patients could experience reactions to anesthesia, excessive bleeding, infection at the surgery site, or improper healing resulting in scarring. Disclosing one's medical history with the doctor, avoiding smoking up to a month before and after surgery, and following all post-op recovery instructions are the best ways to avoid problems.

Talking with a Surgeon

One of the best ways for a potential patient to become more knowledgeable about surgery is to consult directly with the plastic surgeon.

There are crucial questions a surgeon can answer, such as which treatments are available for a desired result, what the success rate of a certain procedure is, what kinds of costs and risks are involved, and how long the recovery process will be. Surgeons can also review before and after photos and explain what a procedure entails.

The decision to undergo facial plastic surgery should not be taken lightly no matter how prepared or knowledgeable a patient feels going in. The best way to be sure surgery is the best way forward is to contact a surgery center to schedule a consultation.