What is the difference between cosmetic plastic surgery and reconstructive surgery?
The main difference between cosmetic surgery and reconstructive surgery is that cosmetic surgery is considered to be elective because one is choosing to change the aesthetic appearance of their body. And when one gets reconstructive surgery they are trying to improve the function of a part of their body usually affected by injury or disease. Some examples of cosmetic surgeryare breast augmentation, double eyelid surgery, and liposuction. Breast reduction and correcting a cleft palate or deviated septum are examples of reconstructive surgery. Also, your health insurance may cover a reconstructive procedure but will not cover a cosmetic one.
Is surgery right for me?
Many people want to know if cosmetic surgery is right for them and I don’t mean physically (the surgeons assess this). Usually, I tell my clients to ask themselves, “Why am I considering plastic surgery?”. If their answer is for anyone but themselves, I tell them not to get it. “If this isn’t for YOU, then this isn’t for you!”. If you are getting breast augmentation because your partner likes big breasts, then please don’t get it. If you are getting liposuction because your mother always mentions how skinny you used to be, then please don’t get it. It’s your body, not theirs, so only do it for you. Plus, no matter how skilled your surgeon is you will most likely not be satisfied with the results if it wasn’t your decision to begin with. When it comes to cosmetic surgery, it’s ok to just think about yourself for a change.
How do I pick my surgeon?
If you are debating between two surgeons with equally amazing qualifications and reviews, then you should choose whomever you can communicate with the best. You need to be able to clearly communicate with your surgeon in order to get the best results. And the easier it is to speak with your surgeon, the more at ease you will be during the entire procedure.
How much is a consultation?
Consultation prices vary depending on the plastic surgery office. Some are free and some charge around 100-200 dollars. Although, most offices who do charge a consulting fee will wave the fee if you decide to have the procedure done at their office. In my experience, smaller cities usually have the more expensive consulting prices because there is less competition. You are more likely to find tons of places with free consultations in larger cities where there are more options. Also, some of the plastic surgeons who are leaders in their field may charge a higher consultation fee, but paying a larger fee may be worth it, if you are more at ease with a more experienced cosmetic surgeon. It’s always best to see a few doctors and pick one that you will feel the most comfortable with.
Can I bring someone with me to my consultations?
Of course you can bring someone! If it helps you with the plastic surgery process, then it’s a great idea to bring someone who is part of your support system. Plus, four ears are better than two. There will be a lot of information to process while speaking to your surgeon, so it can be nice to have someone who can help you remember everything that was said later on. However it isn’t actually necessary, so don’t worry if you would rather not bring anyone along. The best person to bring is your “best friend”, whether that be your actual best friend or your significant other, sister, mother, etc. Bring someone who you are most comfortable with. Someone who won’t distract you from what the doctor is saying, who is honest, and has your best interest at heart. Overall, make sure this is your decision and you aren’t getting plastic surgery for someone else.
Ultimately, it’s all about you!
What do I bring to my consultation?
Great question! Everyone loves a patient that comes prepared. We know you’re busy and barely had time to fit us in your schedule, but the more time you put into the process prior to the consultation, the smoother the process is for all of us. And for you slackers, it’s ok, we still have you covered if your dog ate your homework (ha). Thankfully, the medical staff has a wealth of cosmetic surgery experience and knows what you need. But please, please, please, please, at least come with a few questions. We actually love your questions and are happy to answer to them! Plus, who else would we talk about jiggly butts, wrinkles, and muffin tops to?
A list of questions (Write it down! Trust me, you’ll forget something if you don’t )
Pictures of what you are envisioning and even of what you don’t want is a good idea too (Multiple pictures at different angles is best)
Medical History/List of Medicine (Honesty is the best policy)
Journal/Folder/Notebook (Not necessary, but helps to keep track of information, questions, and thoughts during your journey)
Friend/Relative (Also not necessary, but support systems are great)
Most importantly, realistic expectations!!! (We can’t all look exactly like insert sexy celebrity, but if you want, you can look very close)
Always ask your consultant what they recommend for you to bring for your specific procedure. For example, if you are getting breast augmentation, they may suggest a tight white shirt for a fitting.
How long after my consultation can I have my surgery?
The simple answer is it varies. There are many factors that effect the time frame.
Just to list a few:
The procedure (you may have to see your doctor multiple times prior to)
Your surgeon’s schedule (is she/he busy or not)
What time of year it is (busy season or not)
Your test results (blood tests, etc)
Your lifestyle (shouldn’t smoke, drink, take aspirin and so much more for a few weeks before most procedures)
It’s always best to see a few surgeons as soon as possible because it may take a month or even two to finally get the procedure done by the surgeon of your choice. This isn’t something you want to rush into the extra wait may be beneficial to you. Do your research and set up a plastic surgery consultation to get your questions answered by a professional.
How should I prepare for cosmetic surgery?
First, your surgeon will instruct you on what not to consume prior to cosmetic surgery. It is extremely important to follow their directions. Besides what you shouldn't do, this is what you should do: BE WELL RESTED. EAT HEALTHILY. DRINK WATER. ORGANIZE HOME. ORGANIZE CARETAKER FOR CHILDREN/PETS. TO DO LIST FOR CARETAKER, GET WORK IN ORDER, PREPARE POST-OP RECOVERY STATION, STAY POSITIVE.
Is there anything I shouldn't do before my procedure?
TWO WEEKS BEFORE SURGERY: NO SMOKING, NO ALCOHOL, NO CAFFEINE, NO ADVIL, NO MOTRIN, NO ASPIRIN, NO GINKO, NO GINSENG, NO VITAMIN E, NO FISH OIL, NO ANTIHISTAMINES, NO MEDICATIONS THAT MAY MAKE YOUR BLOOD CLOT & LAST BUT NOT LEAST WHATEVER ELSE YOUR DOCTOR PROHIBITS. Your doctor may advise a different amount of time to refrain from some of these items on the 'NO LIST' dependent on their experience and the procedure being performed. There also is a different 'NO LIST' for the day before the surgery, such as NO EATING/DRINKING AFTER MIDNIGHT, NO VIGOROUS EXERCISE, etc. Some procedures have more specific requests, such as NO DEODORANT for breast augmentation. Please listen to your surgeon, this is to prevent complications during plastic surgery and to make sure you heal quickly with the least amount of bruising and swelling.
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