Article by Andrew Stratton
Plastic surgery is a general term for a variety of cosmetic surgical procedures. These procedures range from facelifts, breast augmentation, breast reconstruction, tattoo removal, varicose vein removal, eye lifts, neck lifts, breast lifts, tummy tucks, liposuction, dermabrasion, chemical peels, face implants, nose shaping, ear shaping, thigh shaping, hair replacement, permanent hair removal and permanent makeup. These cosmetic procedures cover almost every part of the human body. Depending on the results you want, treatments can be non-surgical or surgical in nature. Many people opt for the less expensive non-surgical treatments before committing to the surgical options.
Choosing a surgeon or treatment center depends on the results you wish to achieve. Many day spas offer non-surgical options such as dermabrasion, chemical peels, and filler injections. These treatments usually only take a small amount of time and have almost no recovery time. Surgeons perform the more complex treatments and surgeries. Some are done on an outpatient basis and the more involved procedures are performed in a hospital setting, with a short stay required for recovery and observation purposes. Depending on the results you want, some surgeons are able to combine procedures into one surgery, saving painful recovery time, and money.
Choosing the procedure you want can be an involved process, and only a qualified medical professional can guide you in choosing what procedures are needed to achieve your desired result. Your goals should be realistic, however, as multiple surgeries and procedures can carry an increased risk of complications. You should make a list of what you want to achieve via the surgery, and take it to a consultation appointment to discuss with your doctor. The doctor will be able to review your health history and make you aware of any risk factors. Your general health, medical history, family medical history, medications and herbal supplements, alcohol or tobacco use, and desired results all play a part in the success of your procedures.
You should locate a qualified physician to discuss all of your options. Make sure he has experience in the procedures you want, is fully accredited, and follows all ethics and continuing education guidelines. The surgical centers the surgeon uses should also be accredited by a federal or state accreditation commission. Friends, family and neighbors can usually give first-hand knowledge of how the surgeon operates, and the results they experienced. Ask your surgeon for before and after photos of other patients. Some patients may have also given permission for the surgeon to use them as references. If they have, make sure you call them and hear their impressions and thoughts.
Once you have chosen a surgeon, you will discuss your plan of treatment. Some results will require more than one procedure, and possible more than one surgery. Only the surgeon can tell you the options and any risks you may have. The surgeon will also be able to give you an estimate of your recovery time, and what to expect. Good communication with your physician is key to getting the ultimate results you desire.
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