Cosmetic Surgery - Is It Right For You?

If you've been considering cosmetic surgery here's how to know if it's right for you.

Here are a few questions & Answers to ask yourself that can help you make this most critical decision.

Since any type of cosmetic surgery or cosmetic procedure is a big decision you are wise to look into what it entails and perhaps even the alternatives.

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) the top 5 cosmetic surgery procedures were:

For women:
1 Liposuction & Cellulite reduction
2 Breast Augmentation
3 Eyelid Surgery
4 Facelift
5 Chemical Peel

For Men:
1 Nose Reshaping
2 Eyelid Surgery
3 Liposuction
4 Hair Transplantation
5 Breast Reduction

Unlike years past, it's easier for people to get procedures like reshaping their noses, eye lifts, facelifts, etc.

There have been some groundbreaking advances in these surgeries and they are certainly more affordable than they once were.

But is cosmetic surgery right for you?

Because surgery is a big step for anyone, physically and financially, there are a few things to consider before making that final decision:

Cosmetic surgery is still "surgery" and it can be painful. But more importantly, don't expect to look beautiful coming right out of surgery. You won't look great at first, in fact it can be a little bit of a shock. 

Give it time. It may take a few days but as you heal you will gradually begin to see a better looking you under the swelling and puffiness.

I think it's important to mention that there are patients who have felt a sense of disappointment after their procedures.  To help avoid this it's extremely important to understand how much of a change you can expect. Changes could vary from subtle to extreme.

If you're considering plastic surgery try asking yourself these things first:

Q: Why do I want cosmetic surgery? Who am I doing this for?

A: If it's because someone says you have a big nose or if you think looking more beautiful will change how your spouse or the world feels about you, you're a poor candidate.

Hoping others will change their attitude about you because you have a new face, nose or body won't change how others feel about you and if it does it will be temporary.

This should be about making you feel better about yourself. Helping you develop a positive image of yourself is what helps others feel differently about you. It's what's inside that is the true test of how people look at you. Changing how you look outside will get you noticed, what's inside is what keeps them noticing.

Q: Can I afford A Cosmetic Procedure?

A:  Most cosmetic procedures are not covered by health insurance unless they are health related. So you are responsible for the full cost.

Fortunately, cosmetic procedures have come down considerably in cost but depending on what you have done, they can still be a considerable chunk of change.

If you are looking into cosmetic procedures such as facelift, botox or chemical peels for achieving a younger healthier look it is well worth taking a look at a less invasive anti-aging treatments first. 

Products today such as Vikki Lamotta's 60 second face lift have come a long way in rejuvenating your skin, making it smoother and wiping away the wrinkles without surgery, not to mention it's a whole lot more affordable and you're very likely to be pleased with the results.

If you have sun damaged skin, Rosacea or are trying to improve rough or blotchy skin the Kinerase product line has come to the rescue for many people. It's patented formula can be found at cosmetic counters world wide and many women swear by it.

If you're considering liposuction, look in the popular Tumescent Liposculpture. It's proven to be much cheaper, safer and provides a faster recovery as well.

Q: What if the results are not what I expected?

A: There's always that chance that your surgical expectations might be a let down.  I know that's not what you want to hear when preparing for cosmetic surgery but it can happen.

Be sure you are ready financially and emotionally to undergo more treatment if the results don't meet your expectations.

As with any high cost, risky procedure, think it through. Don't act on a whim. Discuss the procedure extensively with your doctor as well as with relatives and friends.

Get some outside opinions if necessary.  Talk with people who have had the same procedures done that you are looking into. Talk with them about their experiences and get advice from them on any recommendations they might have.

If you're still interested in pursuing cosmetic surgery be sure you are in good health and free from any major health disorders such as diabetes, heart disease or high blood pressure.

See also Cosmetic surgery & Stretch Marks

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