Journalists write their news articles by researching the “w’s” behind a significant event: Who, What, When, Where, And Why.
If you have made the serious decision to alter or enhance your appearance through cosmetic surgery, then perhaps these same “w’s” will assist you in planning the first steps of this significant event in your life.
We based the following list on information from The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) who has published “Guidelines for Consumers
considering any cosmetic surgical or non-surgical procedure.”
1. The “Who” in your surgery: We continually advise patients and prospective patients to carefully investigate a surgeon’s credentials. This refers to the doctor’s training. There are two sources to help you:
A. “A doctor’s training and certification should be appropriate to the planned procedure. Certification by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) ensures in-depth surgical training in all aspects of plastic surgery.”
B. The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) . “This organization verifies that your chosen surgeon is ABPS-certified
and has met additional requirements for continuing education and experience in cosmetic surgery.”
2. The “Where” in your surgery: We counsel patients to be wary of cosmetic procedures being conducted anywhere except a medical facility. Just say “no” to beauty parlor parties or meeting mysterious professionals at a private home.
Other than hospitals, “the facility should be accredited by a recognized national agency, state-licensed or Medicare certified.”
Did You Know? Even if a cosmetic
surgical procedure will be performed in an office or ambulatory surgery center, a reputable surgeon will have “privileges to perform the same procedure in an acute care hospital.”
3. The “What” before surgery: Your chosen physician should take the time to accomplish a good evaluation of your general health, and you should give the surgeon a thorough medical history. He or she should also give you information about the risks of any procedure before obtaining your legal consent.
4. The “When” of your after care: Make certain that you and the surgeon plan details of your recovery care. Any reputable, board certified “doctor will be available for necessary follow-up care of patients undergoing any cosmetic procedure.”
For more details to help you visit with your surgeon about your specific procedure, we invite you to study the glossary at this reliable source.
5. The “Why” of your surgery: Through investigating the above details, remember to evaluate your own realistic expectations.
Be positive that you alone want the cosmetic surgery, and you are not doing it to please some one else. Consider your motivations for the surgery, and discuss any misgivings you have with the surgeon and your primary medical doctor.
Orlando Cosmetic Surgery hopes that now you know how to begin your journey to your new look, step by step, with our list of the 5 W’s!
Thank you for reading our blog, and please return often for our latest news and information from the world of Cosmetic and Reconstructive Surgery.
