With more than 1.5 million procedures performed in the U.S. every year, cosmetic plastic surgery can achieve remarkable results—correcting traits that cause embarrassment or pain. However, what it can't do is cure life's problems or bring back youth, and unfortunately some people find themselves disappointed with the results. If you're considering plastic surgery, ask yourself these questions to make sure you're seeking it for the right reasons.

Have I wanted plastic surgery for a long time?

The clearest decisions are made with careful consideration—it's best that you've spent a few years weighing your options before rushing into a procedure.

Am I doing this for myself?

If you're seeking a procedure to please a partner, your friends, or your boss, it's a bad idea and will likely leave you unhappy or uncomfortable with your new look.

How many procedures have I had?

If you've pursued elective surgery multiple times, you may be suffering from Body Dysmorphic Disorder, which causes you to see flaws in yourself that aren't there.

Will I make lifestyle changes to help my body through the surgery and healing process?

Habits like heavy drinking or smoking can complicate your surgery and healing. Other health conditions like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure can also make surgery risky. Take the time to get yourself as healthy as possible by exercising frequently and watching what you eat. These healthy habits will help balance your mind to make clear decisions as well as prepare your body for surgery.

Have I recently had a major life change or something that makes me feel unhappy or stressed?  

It's better to wait until you're in a positive frame of mind. Need a radical change? Go for a haircut and save surgery for a more stable time in your life.

Can I really afford this?

It's not cheap and rarely covered by insurance. Plastic surgery is NEVER something to bargain shop for!

Do I expect plastic surgery to change my life?

Setting realistic expectations is probably the most important thing you can do before surgery. The procedure will not transform you into someone else or make you look like your teenage self again.

There are good reasons for seeking cosmetic plastic surgery, one is as simple as wanting the way you look to reflect the way you feel. A good doctor will take the time to help shape your decisions along with the part of your body you're changing.

 

Sources:

"News and Resources" American Society of Plastic Surgery. Web. 2011.
http://www.plasticsurgery.org/Documents/news-resources/statistics/2010-statisticss/Top-Level/2010-Fullquickfacts-cosmetic-surgery-minimally-invasive-statistic-demographics.pdf

"Patient Safety" Beauty for Life. Web. 2011.
http://www.beautyforlife.com/safety.aspx

"What to Know Before Choosing Surgery" The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Web. 2009.
http://www.surgery.org/consumers/consumer-resources/frequently-asked-questions/what-to-know-before-choosing-surgery