Why Cosmetic Surgery

Cosmetic surgery is surgery, with the risks and recovery time that surgery entails. In most cases, the patient’s health insurance won’t pay for it. So why do so many people in Phoenix Arizona want cosmetic surgery in the first place? According to statistics gathered by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 1.7 million people had cosmetic surgical procedures in 2016. That’s a lot of people to have surgery that doesn’t save their life or their health.

But when it comes to cosmetic surgery, the patient’s mental health is paramount. Some people quite simply cannot stand some aspect of their physical appearance and are in the position to do something about it. These patients do not see the problem as simply a flaw, but as something that weighs on their mind interferes with their ability to be happy and may even impact their social or work life.

Before the patient seeks a cosmetic surgeon, they research how it is performed, its risks, possible complications, cost and recovery time. Some surgeries require weeks of recuperation. Is the patient in a position to take those weeks off from work? Can they afford a visiting nurse service, or do they have friends and relatives who are available to take care of their home, pets and young children if they have them?

The patient might look into other options that can fix their problem that does not require surgery. Even a good cosmetic surgeon will suggest minimally invasive or even non-invasive procedures if they are alternatives to surgery. Sometimes even these procedures require a few days of rest. Can the patient take even a few days off? Not only this, if the procedure was done to their face or neck, there might be bruising and swelling for a while even after they are ready to go back to work. Is the patient comfortable with telling coworkers, family and friends that, no, they didn’t get into an accident, and yes, they had a facelift. A surprising number of people are not comfortable with letting even loved ones know they are interested in or have had plastic surgery.

Finding a Doctor

A patient who is determined to have surgery needs to find a qualified and highly skilled plastic surgeon, ideally one who has experience in the type of surgery they seek. They should have a list of at least three cosmetic surgeons. They can get recommendations from people who have had the same kind of surgery that they want. The surgeon:

Must have graduated from medical school and have the certificates to prove it
Has to have successfully completed a residency in plastic surgery
Has to have a medical speciality
Must have hospital privileges
Must be board certified
Should, ideally, be a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons or some other accredited board of medical specialities

Taking the time to research both the surgery and potential surgeon gives the patient a better chance to have a positive experience.