There are many different reasons why people may choose cosmetic & plastic surgery today. With the advances in technology, including the options for non-invasive types of treatments, doctors, and patients have a much wider range of considerations to create just the look they want.
It is important to distinguish between different types of cosmetic & plastic surgery. While many people only think of elective types of surgery done for aesthetic or personal preference reasons, there are also reconstructive surgeries which are done to address traumatic injuries, birth defects, or other types of damage caused by diseases.
For both groups of patients, those choosing cosmetic & plastic surgery for elective reasons or those having reconstructive work done, it will be important for the doctor to evaluate if an individual is a good candidate for the type of procedure indicated.
Reasons for the Procedure
Doctors performing cosmetic & plastic surgery will ask questions of the client to determine the reasons for the procedure. This ensures that the person has realistic expectations for the procedure and that they are doing it with thought and consideration for the changes in their lives.
This is particularly for procedures that will dramatically change the look of the individual. Facial reconstructions, breast implants or augmentations or other types of surgical procedures will naturally be considered more carefully than something like a Botox injection or facelifts that don’t change the actual structure of the body or face.
Health Factors
While cosmetic & plastic surgery is considered safe, particularly for the non-invasive and minimally invasive procedures, the patients overall health and current medical status has to be considered.
Patients that are heavy smokers, have specific types of health conditions that may weaken the immune system, or those that may be on specific medications may not be suitable candidates for some procedures.
In addition, if the cosmetic & plastic surgery is related to weight loss, most doctors will encourage the patient to complete the full weight loss program before having plastic or cosmetic surgery. This prevents the need for multiple procedures and also allows the patient to stabilize at their new weight before determining what options they wish to consider.
While some cosmetic & plastic surgery is covered by insurance, this is typically only related to reconstructive surgery. Elective options for cosmetic surgery are not covered, and your doctor and clinic can discuss payment options and plans based on your unique situation.
