Basic background

Cosmetic surgery consists not just of enhancing someones beauty, but also to help those who have been badly damaged in an accident or who have physical birth defects.  Many believe that women are the main gender that go for cosmetic surgery.  Yet studies have shown that 11% of men are also getting cosmetic surgery, and 10% of adolescent girls.  The seriousness of the skin condition does not contribute to the decision to go ahead with cosmetic surgery.  More experienced surgeons are able to look at what is appropriate for one person and not require the same procedure for another person.   Experienced surgeons who are used to working with people can tell the difference between what is appropriate for one person and what is not.

Who qualifies for plastic surgery?

Generally, a plastic surgeon must be board certified and have an accredited plastic surgery school.  He or she must also have at least five years of experience in the specific surgical area in order to be board certified.  Some cities have closed schools that offer cosmetic surgery, so it is important to check with your plastic surgeon about where he or she studied.

What does “unusual” mean?

It could mean anything.  Some surgeons are surgeons who do not have a specific educational background.  In other cases, it could be that they have performed several procedures in their field but not all of them fall into the allowable categories.  For each practitioner, there are three phases of certification.  Before the surgeon can be certified, he or she must have completed training in part or entirety through an accredited plastic surgery school.  During this time, the surgeon must student plastic surgery schoolwork in concentrations parallel to the coursework.  He or she must also pass written and oral exams.  After the surgeon has been certified, he or she may need to again pass the exams for recertification.

Are there different surgeons?

While a general surgeon may be the first to find a job, it is not necessarily the best option for someone looking for a yet better quality of life.  That is why it is wise to do thorough research of several different surgeons before making a decision.  It is important to check with patients whose conditions were helped by the physician previously.  Ask how the surgeon handles the process of surgeryverician fees.  Check whether the surgeon is taking new patients and whether the physician offers aftercare assistance.

How much will the surgeon charge?

Talk to patients that have already seen the surgeon.  Find out how much the surgeon charges for the procedure you need.  For most procedures, the surgeon will charge you directly.  This can help you save money.  For catastrophic procedures, you may be billed by the hospital directly.

Check for red flags

The most important part of your consultation with the plastic surgeon is to determine whether or not you are a good candidate for the procedure you want.  Some conditions, such as urinary tract infections, can hinder your recovery.  In this case, it is best to seek out a different physician.  Also, you should know if the surgeon charges you personally for any services.  You should also ask about payment, the cost of the procedure, the length of the recovery, and if there are any additional costs that are added to you.

What should I expect after the procedure?

After your plastic surgery, you will want to take a couple of days to allow for healing.  If you had a hospital birth, you should expect to have a checkup to be scheduled within 48 hours of your delivery for any complications.  You should also plan on a limit of no more than two weeks in between major activities, such as visiting relatives. Fortunately, surgery is usually well on its way to being a success within the first twelve weeks following surgery.