Beauty Doc Blog

Sending Mixed Messages

Web sites that offer plastic surgery advice are all over the Internet, many giving the impression that the decision to undergo plastic surgery is as effortless as making a wardrobe choice each morning. Reality TV often presents viewers with the before and after images, ignoring the ups and downs of the recovery process. And advertisements might mislead the public into thinking plastic surgery should be merely a slight inconvenience – more like a dental visit rather than actual surgery.

On the other end of the spectrum, some web sites and message forums give unhappy patients the chance to use their freedom of speech to vent about nightmarish experiences and urge others not to travel down the same road – as if plastic surgery was a one-size-fits-all experience.

Choose a Reputable Surgeon

No matter how minor it may seem, any surgery carries with it the risk of something not turning out exactly as planned. However, with the frequent technological and surgical improvements in the industry, plastic surgery is consistently reliable and is, in general, considered safe.

Before scheduling any procedure, it’s wise to have consultations with surgeons you are considering. Don’t be afraid to meet with more than one cosmetic surgeon to discuss your desires, your medical history, and the realistic expectations of the procedure. It’s important for you to feel comfortable with your physician and confident in his or her skills.

Be certain to check a cosmetic surgeon’s credentials before signing any agreement or paying any deposits.

Plastic surgeons are aware of the risks of surgery and recovery. As a patient and as a consumer, you are entitled to freely discuss this information with your plastic surgery professional during your consultation, and you deserve to have all of your questions answered in plain English – not just intimidating medical jargon.

Some of the risks involved with plastic surgery include bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia or sutures, wound separation, excessive scarring, or nerve damage.

Smokers, the elderly, people with diabetes, heart conditions and certain allergies are more likely to experience complications than others.

You must be informed of all of the possible risks and complications. While postoperative complications are unusual, every procedure entails at least a small degree of risk. Make sure that you understand not only the risks, but also how likely they are to occur, and how your plastic surgeon plans to treat them if they do transpire.

For more information on ethical and professional plastic surgery procedures, visit Grossman Plastic Surgery.