Cosmetic Surgery--Educate and Protect Yourself!

I have heard, read and seen documentaries on cosmetic surgery. Some women appear to have been butchered. Others found themselves under the knife of unqualified doctor’s; or worse yet, a non-medical, unlicensed person.

My intent here is to make sure you are current and up-to-date and well-informed before you proceed. Please do your homework!!

COSMETIC SURGERY SAFETY TIPS

Choosing to have cosmetic (aesthetic) surgery is a big and very personal decision. Aesthetic surgery is no different from any other medical procedure, and if it isn't performed properly, patients can face lifelong consequences and even death. For these reasons and more, it's important for patients to do their homework-- to learn about the benefits and risks of the surgery and the location where the surgery is being performed, before agreeing to it. If you're considering cosmetic surgery, here are some safety tips to keep in mind…

KNOW YOUR MEDICAL HISTORY

Your doctor will ask questions about your complete medical history. Be prepared with this information, including any current medications that you are taking. Do not withhold any details, even if it seems insignificant to you. Understanding your medical history will help your doctor to make sure that the cosmetic surgery will not cause any problems.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK

Before making an appointment, do some research on the location where your surgery will be performed: visit the facility to see what it's like and research its’ reputation. Calling the Better Business Bureau is a good first step.

Be especially careful of "Medi-spas," which can be found in beauty salons, spas, or malls. These locations usually do not have medical staff on site, which is dangerous if problems occur with your cosmetic surgery. If you choose a Medi-spa, always ask for the names and training/credentials of the medical personnel who are responsible for supervising the facility.

PATIENT CHECKLIST

Physicians specialize in many different areas of aesthetic surgery. Depending on the type of procedure you are interested in, look for certification in cosmetic surgery, dermatology, facial plastic and/or reconstructive surgery, plastic surgery, ophthalmology, orotolaryngology. Contact the Board to confirm membership.

Check experience: Ask your surgeon about his/her experience with the procedure you're interested in. Also, find out the doctor's policies on follow-up care.

Don't bargain shop! If you are receiving a cosmetic surgery procedure that is considerably less expensive than usual, it's safe to assume that you're not getting the best treatment. The same holds true for doctors: the most qualified physician may not be the most or least expensive.

MAKE SURE A DOCTOR IS ON-SITE

In the case of an emergency, it's very important for a doctor to be present. Most cosmetic procedures should be performed by a doctor who is board-certified in cosmetic surgery or dermatology with equal training and experience. If a procedure is not being performed by a doctor, the supervising doctor should be present and available to answer questions and respond to problems that may occur while the procedure is being done.

ASK QUESTIONS

What are the doctor's qualifications for performing cosmetic surgery? Is he/she a member of a medical specialty organization, for example, the American Board of Dermatology or Plastic Surgery? How many times has he/she performed the surgery that you're interested in? Does the procedure have any side effects and, if so, what are they?

As a rule, never allow a non-medical, unlicensed person to perform a medical procedure; all procedures should be supervised by a doctor who has appropriate board certification, training, and experience.

FOR MORE INFORMATION:TALK TO YOUR PHYSICIAN OR VISIT WWW.AESTHETICENHANCE.ORG

Ask about possible side effects, including pain. Discomfort or pain may occur after certain cosmetic treatments. Before agreeing to any surgery, you should be fully informed of all possible benefits and side effects.

If you do not feel completely comfortable with a specific doctor or location, find another. And remember, cosmetic procedures should never be done in someone's home, in a hotel, or at a party.

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