Deciding on plastic surgery is a big decision and one that needs to be considered carefully by the patient. To help you consider everything, we’ve compiled a list of the key areas you need to think about before going under the knife.
1. The surgeon
The skill and certification of your plastic surgeon are a vital consideration before deciding to receive plastic surgery. Whether you are looking at simple non-surgical procedures or more extensive reconstructive or cosmetic surgery, skill and experience are an extremely important factor. You should never place your health in the hands of someone you don’t fully trust, or who doesn’t have the appropriate qualifications – this includes doctors overseas who may not adhere to Australian standards. Mr David Morgan is a fully qualified Specialist Plastic Surgeon with extensive experience in reconstructive surgery and facial trauma.
In addition to skills and qualifications, it is important to have a trusting relationship with your surgeon. You need to feel comfortable and at ease, and trust that your surgeon will listen to your personal concerns and desires and take them into consideration. Surgery isn’t a one-time experience; you will need to attend preparation appointments as well as follow-up visits. Essentially, you are entering into a relationship with your surgeon, and for that relationship to be successful you need to feel comfortable and understood. We prioritise our patient’s wellbeing. Our entire team is dedicated to making you feel comfortable and safe.
2. Recovery time
Each surgery will have some recovery time associated with it, and it is important to consider this when deciding if you would like to go ahead. Some patients may be required to take time off work or even rest in bed for a few days. You may also require a responsible adult to care for you directly after your surgery. In certain seasons of life, these requirements are simply not achievable for some patients.
3. Risks
There will always be some risks involved with any surgery or cosmetic procedure you undergo. It is extremely important that you receive a detailed report on the risks involved with your specific treatment and that you ask any questions you may have to fully understand the entire process. While all surgeries through our practice adhere to Australian standards and are performed by our highly skilled and qualified surgeon Mr Morgan, there are still risks and the possibility of complications.
4. Having realistic expectations
It’s important to understand that there are no absolute guarantees for any surgery. Just because a friend or a previous patient had one experience with surgery does not automatically mean that you will have the same or similar experience. Your surgeon must thoroughly explain to you the risks and possible complications involved; however, we also recommend doing your own independent research.
Everybody is unique, not every aspiration is practical or realistic, and your surgeon may suggest that you are not an appropriate candidate for your desired surgery.
You must also realise that plastic surgery is not a miracle cure. Underlying insecurities, problems with self-esteem or the occurrence of mental illnesses will not be treated by changing the appearance of your body.
5. Being in the right mental state
Similarly, it is important to go through with surgery for the right reasons. Consider your motivations; do you desire a change in your body because you are unhappy within yourself or because of pressure placed on you by a friend, partner or family member? These motivations are dangerous and could lead to serious emotional damage.
An ideal candidate is a healthy patient who has realistic goals and is, for the most part, happy in themselves. Patients in this state of mind will not be hanging their happiness on the success of the surgery in their eyes, or have an unrealistic expectation of altered mood or self-worth associated with the surgery.
We also recommend avoiding plastic surgery of any kind around the time of a traumatic event. Whether that is a death of a family member, a breakdown in a close relationship or even a job loss, making life-altering decisions in these times is not recommended. If you still feel the same way after some time has passed this is a good indication that you are making the decision for the right reasons.
To find out more about if plastic surgery is right for you, or to book a consultation, contact us today.