Are you considering plastic surgery this year? As always, the turning of the New Year has us setting goals and making plans for the coming 12 months. While some of us seek to improve our nutrition, fitness, habits, or relationships. Others will take the plunge on big decisions they have been mulling over like buying a new car or finally scheduling that plastic surgery procedure you’ve been coveting. 

Remember: Plastic Surgery is a Personal Choice

The topic of cosmetic surgery can be a divisive one. While addressing physical insecurities through surgery can be liberating and life-changing for some, others have strong opinions about those who participate in plastic surgery and why. However, plastic surgery is ultimately a personal choice, and the reasons for having a cosmetic procedure are best left to the individual and their surgeon. If you are considering plastic surgery, focus on the reasons that YOU feel it is the right choice for your body. If a loved one has expressed their desire for a cosmetic procedure, try your best to discuss the topic with them from a place of support rather than judgment. 

Checklist When Considering Plastic Surgery

1. Assess your health
   Is your lifestyle healthy enough for you to have a successful surgery? What changes to your nutrition, fitness, and lifestyle will be required for you to be eligible for your desired procedure? 
   
2. Do your procedure research
   There are many techniques and strategies that a surgeon can use to give you the best possible result. Understanding the reasons that surgeons use these different techniques can help you choose the right surgeon and communicate with them effectively about what you are trying to achieve. 
   
3. Find a Board-Certified plastic surgeon
   The American Board of Plastic Surgery assesses and certifies surgeons who practice safe, ethical, and efficacious plastic surgery. 
   
4. Seek a surgeon who does more than the minimum
   We have all seen the results of “botched” plastic surgery results from surgeons who were not qualified, did not communicate risks to their patients, or cut corners performing surgery. Surgery is no place to try to find a bargain or a quick fix. Look for surgeons who are transparent about their results and risks and who don’t overpromise their results. 
   
5. Get different perspectives
   Considering plastic surgery can come with many choices whether that be the size of a breast implant or the method of rhinoplasty. Seek opinions from those who have had the procedure you are interested in. Read plastic surgery forums, watch YouTube videos, and reach out to your friends and acquaintances who may have helpful information to share. 
   
6. Check your calendar
   Nearly every plastic surgery will have downtime where you will need to take time to rest and recover to ensure you avoid complications and get excellent results. Take time to consider when you will be unable to take time off or when you will have additional social obligations (think: holidays with family). Think about when you hope to debut your results – take note of the healing time (usually weeks or months) and be sure it aligns with when you hope to be showing off your beautiful results! 
   
7. Prepare your loved ones
   When you have made your decision, you may feel the need to prepare your family for the changes they will notice in your appearance. Understand that you may not get a positive reaction from everyone you share with, and that’s ok! You may also be surprised by how supportive some of your friends and family can be. 
   
8. Prepare your home
   Understand the physical limitations that your surgery will leave you with and make sure you have a safe space to recover. Find out from your surgeon how much help you may need from a trusted friend or family member and whether that will be possible in your current living situation.