What To Research For If You Are Considering Cosmetic Surgery?

From my experience as a Massage Therapist who does a lot of post-surgical manual lymph drainage, I have run into quite a lot of clients who had cosmetic surgery, mainly lipo and tummy tuck, never get any information prior about post-op recovery during their consultations wishing they had more information to prepare for their recovery process including costs.

When considering cosmetic surgery, it's crucial to conduct thorough research to make informed decisions and ensure your safety and satisfaction with the procedure. Here are some essential aspects to research:

1. The procedure: Start by learning about the specific cosmetic surgery procedure you are considering. Understand the benefits, potential risks, and recovery process. Look for reputable medical sources, articles, and educational materials to gain a comprehensive understanding.

2. Board-certified plastic surgeons: Ensure that you choose a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience and a track record of successful procedures. Check their credentials, certifications, and patient reviews. Consult multiple surgeons to get different perspectives and make comparisons. Make sure this also includes the post-recovery process to see if you are willing to commit to the process.

3. Risks and complications: Investigate the potential risks and complications associated with the surgery. Understanding these risks will help you make an informed decision about whether the benefits outweigh the potential drawbacks.

4. Recovery process: Research the recovery period and what to expect during the healing process. Knowing the downtime and necessary aftercare will help you plan accordingly.

5. Expected outcomes: Explore the realistic expectations for the results of the cosmetic procedure. Be cautious of unrealistic promises or claims that sound too good to be true. Make sure the expected outcomes are communicated from right after surgery to being completely recovered. For instance, when you are out of surgery you shouldn’t expect to look like you are snatched and ready to take on the world. The expectation should be you are going to be in a lot of pain and discomfort, swollen, etc.

6. Before and after photos: Ask your potential surgeon for before and after photos of previous patients who have undergone the same procedure. This will give you an idea of the surgeon's skill level and the potential outcomes. Be realistic about your own potential outcomes as well and be sure to ask your surgeon about those outcomes.

7. Cost and financing options: Understand the total cost of the procedure, including surgeon fees, anesthesia, facility costs, any follow-up visits, compression garments, and post-op manual lymph drainage treatments. Additionally, inquire about available financing options or payment plans if necessary.

8. Patient experiences: Read testimonials and stories from individuals who have undergone similar cosmetic surgeries. Online forums and support groups can provide valuable insights and tips from real people who have been through the process.

9. Alternatives to surgery: Explore non-surgical alternatives or less invasive procedures that may achieve similar results if you are hesitant about undergoing surgery.

10. Medical facilities: Research the quality and reputation of the medical facilities where the surgery will take place. Make sure the facility is accredited and meets all safety standards.

11. Consultation: Schedule consultations with potential surgeons to discuss your goals, concerns, and expectations. This will also give you an opportunity to assess the surgeon's communication style and whether you feel comfortable with them.

12. Pre-operative and post-operative care: Understand what is required of you before and after the surgery in terms of preparation and aftercare. Compliance with instructions is vital for a successful and safe outcome.

Remember, cosmetic surgery is a personal decision, and it's essential to take your time to research and gather information before proceeding. Don't hesitate to ask questions, seek multiple opinions, and ensure you are well informed about all aspects of the procedure before making your choice.