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continued:

Cosmetic surgery: What to know beforehand

Finding a qualified cosmetic surgeon

If you decide to pursue cosmetic surgery, you'll probably have your choice of cosmetic surgeons. Choose one who specializes in the procedure you'd like to have done and is certified in the specialty by a board recognized by the American Board of Medical Specialties, such as the American Board of Plastic Surgery or the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. Beware of misleading certifications from unrecognized or self-designated boards.

If you'll be having a procedure that requires general anesthesia, be sure that the operating facility has been accredited by a national- or state-recognized accrediting agency, such as The Joint Commission, or is licensed by the state in which the facility is located.

It's also important to remember that not all referrals are equal. Seek recommendations from people you trust, such as your family doctor or a friend who's had a successful procedure. If you call a hospital to ask for a recommendation, you might simply be referred to the next cosmetic surgeon on a revolving list.

Meeting your surgeon

When you've narrowed your choice of surgeons, schedule a consultation — or multiple consultations with different surgeons. The surgeon will evaluate the part of your body that you want treated, and you'll share your medical history, list any medications you're taking, and discuss your desires and expectations. During the initial consultation, ask the surgeon:

  • Am I a good candidate for this procedure? Why or why not?
  • Are there treatments other than surgery that might work just as well or better for me?
  • How many times have you done this procedure? What were the results?
  • Can you share photos or diagrams to help me understand the procedure and the expected results?
  • Can the desired effect be accomplished in one procedure, or do you anticipate multiple procedures?
  • What are the specific surgical options? What are the pros and cons for each?
  • What type of anesthetic will be used? How will it affect me?
  • Will I be hospitalized? If so, for how long?
  • What are the possible complications?
  • How will my progress be monitored after surgery? What follow-up care will I receive?
  • How much will the procedure cost?
  • How often is "touch-up" surgery needed? Is it covered in the cost estimate?

The closer you work with your surgeon to establish specific, measurable and achievable goals before surgery, the more likely you are to be satisfied with the results. Remember, though, even if you've done your homework and found a surgeon you like — at a price you can afford — the decision to pursue cosmetic surgery is yours and yours alone. Make sure you're absolutely comfortable with the surgeon and committed to your treatment choices.

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References
  1. What is recovery from plastic surgery like? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Plastic_Surgery_FAQs/What_is_recovery_from_plastic_surgery_like.html. Accessed May 5, 2010.
  2. What should you know about the safety of outpatient surgery? American Society of Plastic Surgeons. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Plastic_Surgery_FAQs/What_should_you_know_about_the_safety_of_outpatient_surgery.html. Accessed May 5, 2010.
  3. Insurance coverage: A patient's guide. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Planning_Your_Surgery/Insurance_Coverage_A_Patients_Guide.html. Accessed May 5, 2010.
  4. Psychological aspects: Your self-image and plastic surgery. American Society of Plastic Surgeons. http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Patients_and_Consumers/Planning_Your_Surgery/Psychological_Aspects_Your_Self-Image_and_Plastic_Surgery.html. Accessed May 5, 2010.
  5. Frequently asked questions about the AAFPRS. American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. http://www.aafprs.org/patient/procedures/faq.html. Accessed May 5, 2010.
  6. Keyes GR, et al. Analysis of outpatient surgery center safety using an Internet-based quality improvement and peer review program. Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. 2004;113:1760.
  7. Moss TP, et al. Psychological change after aesthetic plastic surgery: A prospective controlled outcome study. Psychology, Health and Medicine. 2009;14:567.
  8. Haeck PC. The plastic surgery consultation and patient selection. In: Chung KC, et al. Plastic Surgery: Indications and Practice. Edinburgh, Scotland: Saunders/Elsevier; 2009:7.
  9. Sykes JM. Managing the psychological aspects of plastic surgery patients. Current Opinion in Otolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery. 2009;17:321.
SN00006 Aug. 7, 2010

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