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I often get asked by new patients if I think they are ready to have plastic surgery. The premise of that question is what they eprceive physically and that is one important issue, But there are important psychological and financial considerations as well.

However, a simple yes to that question is based more than just on the physical issues at hand and patient also need to think about other considerations as well before having any plastic surgery procedure. While many have written about surgery preparedness, I would consider the following the 'big' three' which, in my mind and experience, are the most significant.

First, do some background research on the desired procedures as well as on your doctor(s). The internet may be full of inaccurate and misleading information, but it is also chocked full of a lot of good information about everything in plastic surgery. Become a good student again, do your homework, and be prepared to ask your plastic surgeon good questions. You can't expect the plastic surgeon to tell you everything in the limited face-to-face time you have.Your plastic surgeon has these conversations all day long, you will have far fewer of them. Take charge of your knowledge and education.

Secondly, can you really afford to have the plastic surgery procedures? I fully realize that in life people afford what they want, not what they need. It is not my job, nor am I capable, of assessing whether this is the best way for you to spend your money. My financial responsibility lies in educating you about which procedures have the best value based on what you are trying to achieve. One of the factors to consider in determining financial feasibility is...how much buffer do you have should complications occur? Yu may have extra expenses or need more time off from work should a complication develop. Leave some financial wiggle room if you are considering elective plastic surgery. This area is one of the most common reasons for 'dissatisfaction' from plastic surgery procedures.

Lastly, be prepared to accept the reality that complications from plastic surgery can and do occur. And I don't mean rarely. While most plastic surgery complications are relatively minor and easily solved in most cases, a few are not. Just like a car accident, for example, you are not exempt from the risks of adverse outcomes. It does not always happen to the 'other guy'. Most importantly, factor this in psychologically. Recovery from plastic surgery will always take longer than you think in many cases. Getting over the inconvenience of a surgical complication will likewise be more prolonged that all will like.

These three areas of mental and psychological preparedness will serve you well to undergo any plastic surgery procedure...and will go far in making you ready for it.

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