The idea of having plastic surgery is very exciting, but often times, many people get caught up in the excitement and don’t stop to think if they are actually ready to do it. Here are some questions to ask yourself before you schedule that consultation.

Why do I want to have this procedure?

Good reasons to have plastic surgery are to look and feel better and be more confident.  Patients who think surgery will change their lives are likely to be disappointed.  Peer pressure or a need to fit in can often factor in to a decision to “have a little work done.” However, you should never undergo plastic surgery to make someone else happy.  It’s your body, and it should be something you want to do for yourself  .

Is this the right time to have plastic surgery?

Recovery times are different for breast augmentation than they are for a tummy tuck. Regardless of the procedure, recovery from surgery will require your full attention. You will also want to make sure that you have a great caregiver who can get you to and from surgery and take care of you for the first 24 hours.  If you have a lot going on in your life with work and/or your family, you might want to wait until a time when it can be all about you.

Can I afford it?

Insurance companies don’t cover cosmetic procedures, and plastic surgery is not cheap. (If it is, you may want to check the credentials of the person doing your surgery.)  Many plastic surgeons offer financing through companies like CareCredit and most accept major credit cards.  In addition to the cost of the procedure, you will need to take into account things like being out of work, and having someone take care of you (or your kids) while you heal.

Have I researched my doctor?

There is a difference between a cosmetic surgeon and a plastic surgeon.  A “cosmetic surgeon” does not have the surgical training that a plastic surgeon does. Even if their website says they are ‘board certified’ it may not be in plastic surgery – sometimes it’s dermatology or gynecology. How can you tell if a physician is really a plastic surgeon? Look to see if the surgeon is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and you will be guaranteed that your physician has the proper surgical training.

If you have sensible answers and solutions to these questions, congratulations, you’re ready to take that next step and schedule your consultation.