The best questions to ask before going under the knife
So you’re thinking of getting a tummy tuck, or a facelift, or even just a little botox to smooth things out? Do you know what the realistic results will be? Or how long you’ll need to recover? It’s not just on the doctor to know what he or she’s doing – it’s your responsibility to know what you want, and what you’re likely to get.
If you’re considering undergoing any plastic surgery, be sure to ask your prospective plastic surgeon these five questions during your consultation.
“What results can I realistically expect from this procedure?”
You have the right to know what to expect from your procedure. Your doctor will be more than happy to explain the kind of results you can expect, and will be able to produce before-and-after photos for prospective patients to inspect.
“What factors will contribute to the outcome of my surgery?”
While the skill of the surgeon is a major factor in how well your surgery could go, you’re not removed from the equation. Often times, there are aspects of the patient’s lifestyle that can contribute to the success of the surgery. Ask your doctor what these factors could be for a given procedure.
“What can I do before my surgery to ensure a positive experience?”
Much like how sometimes you need to fast before having bloodwork taken, there are things you’ll probably need to do or avoid before your procedure. Your surgeon will be happy to instruct you when you should take these steps and why.
”What should I be aware of during recovery?”
Surgery is surgery, and you can expect some recovery time for most procedures. This is an excellent opportunity to make yourself aware of what to expect, so you will know what sort of pain or swelling is normal, and what are signs of complications.
“What can I do to prolong the effects of my surgery?”
Remember, the surgery itself is only a short fraction of your experience with the new you. You’re going to live with the results for a long time, so you should strive to maintain them as best you can! Your doctor will have plenty of tips to help maximize the results of your surgery.