Cosmetic surgery can achieve some incredible results. From anti-aging to reconstructive, to enhancing and reducing… it’s some people’s desired route to achieving the physical appearance they’ve always dreamed of.
Yet, it should be approached with due consideration. It comes with risks and financial investment, and as such should be the result of long-term thought and planning. If you’ve been considering undergoing cosmetic surgery for some time, you may be close to making a decision. If the thought has only just come into your mind, you’ll likely have a lot more research to do. Wherever you are in your decision-making journey, these are the considerations you should contemplate…
Do you know what outcome you want?
You should go into your first meeting with a firm idea of what you’re looking to achieve from your surgery. Don’t be embarrassed to discuss what you’re unhappy with at the moment. Perhaps also take in photographs to help illustrate the final look you want.
Do you fully understand the risks?
As with any medical surgery, cosmetic procedures can carry risks, including long-term physical damage should the practice not go to plan. Before you take any steps further, you should come to terms with any potential fall out and ensure that you are confident to progress even with these scenarios in mind.
You should also prepare for a level of disappointment. It’s likely you’ve built up a mental image of the look you are trying to achieve; be careful you aren’t envisaging an unrealistic outcome. Do your research on cosmetic surgery ‘before and after’ case studies, from people who have undergone the same surgery you are considering. It’s entirely possible your wildest dreams will be achieved, but you should prepare for the alternative also.
Can you afford the procedure?
Understandably, cosmetic surgery comes with a hefty price tag — you wouldn’t want it to come cheap! Before you put down any money, you should consider whether you can truly afford the payments. If you’re borrowing money, either through a loan or credit card, plan how you’ll be able to repay the installments. Debt can be a slippery slope and one which you’ll want to avoid.
Are you proceeding with trusted medical professionals?
It goes without saying that you should partner with cosmetic surgeons who come highly recommended and have a wealth of experience in the treatment you’re undergoing. Some of the most respected establishments include Harley Street and the Royal College of Surgeons.
You should also research those who you could help you if indeed you suffer malpractice. The Medical Negligence Experts are good to speak to before you book in any surgery appointments. It doesn’t bear to think about, but it’s better to be safe than sorry.
Will you be able to reverse the surgery, should you want to?
These days, there are non-surgical and non-invasive procedures, such as nose reshaping, which could be a less risky alternative to the surgery you have in mind. Otherwise, it’s possible the surgery you’re booking can be reversible in some way — it’s worth asking, to have in mind before you make any final decisions.