If you are tired of wanting to change aspects of your face or body, cosmetic surgery is probably on your mind. After all, there are lots of operations that are perfect for changing your look. Since such procedures are usually considered invasive and somewhat risky, it is imperative that you have an informational meeting with a surgeon before you commit.
Each operation is different, so your surgeon will first need to let you know the details about the one you want. Expect him or her to tell you where the operation will be performed, as this depends on whether he or she is allowed to do it in the hospital or prefers to operate in his or her own surgical office. The doctor should also tell you what type of pain management to expect during surgery, such as general or local anesthesia.
Perhaps your most pressing question is what the results will be. You can get an idea by looking at pictures of patients before and after their operation. Though your doctor cannot promise that you will look a certain way, he should at least offer one or two small revisions afterward if you are not satisfied.
It is important that you also ask about the length of the healing period. You will probably be advised to get a week or more off work, depending on your particular operation. During this time, it's commonplace to experience swelling and bruising, and you might need to wear compression garments. If the pain is bearable, you may not need more than a week off.
As seen in most surgeries, there will be pain during recovery. You should be given painkillers by your surgeon to handle the discomfort, unless of course over-the-counter medications work. Bleeding is normal for the first couple of days. To be on the safe side, your doctor will recommend that a friend stay with you during the first day home, during which you should relax.
A discussion about the risks is an important component of the initial consultation. Even the most experienced, careful doctor can make a mistake, so there is always a chance of complications. Complications range from minor to serious, and may include infections, extreme scarring, and bleeding that does not stop without medical help. This is why you should think hard before getting surgery, as it must be worth the risks.
Even if you agree to the operation, your surgeon cannot perform the procedure unless you are a good candidate. You can prove that you are by showing you have realistic expectations, and that you have no medical conditions that would make the procedure risky. Some examples of conditions include hypertension and diabetes. You will need to fill out a medical history form and have a physical examination to prove you are a healthy candidate before the procedure.
Last but not least, you and your doctor should discuss how and when you will pay. You cannot rely on your health insurance to pay for the procedure, as it will not likely cover cosmetic surgery. Some clinics feature payment plans that are meant to help patients slowly pay it off over a few years. When you finally know how you will pay for it, you should be fully prepared for the operation.
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