I came up with mnemonics for SAFE PLASTIC SURGERY. Today I will talk about the "SAFE" part of the phrase.
S: summarize the changes you want to see in yourself.
Make a detailed list or even diagrams of which functions (s) you don’t like or want to improve. Photographs of functions can be used to transfer your ideas to your surgeon. However, keep in mind that photos are only landmarks. Features that may seem attractive to someone else may look unnatural on you. Try to be as specific as possible when listing the changes you would like to see.
A: Evaluate your readiness for surgery.
Questions you ask yourself: “Am I really ready? Am I emotionally, physically and financially prepared for the operation? Do I have enough time for proper recovery? ”
It is better to have relative stability in your life before undergoing plastic surgery. If you have serious problems, such as a recent loss of a loved one, a divorce, or an unplanned job or career change, this may not be the right time to consider plastic surgery. Below is a list of items that will help you decide whether you are ready to undergo plastic surgery:
1. "I want to look good and feel better about myself."
Some people feel and look better after buying new clothes or a new car, having sex or eating great food. I recommend that, if the desired improvements can be achieved through diet and exercise, this should be undertaken first.
2. "Someone else complains about my appearance."
This is not a reason for plastic surgery. “Beauty is in the eye of the beholder” (Hungerford). What one person sees as a physical character in need of improvement may seem like your best feature to another.
3. "I am depressed."
This is not a reason for thinking about plastic surgery. As mentioned earlier, emotional stability is the key to successful surgery.
4. "I need to save my job, marriage, or relationship."
Although one thing or a marriage can be worth saving, the operation is certainly not the answer. If you think your job or marriage is at risk, try to find out the essence of the problem. Talk to your boss, husband or wife. You might find that once everything is resolved or resolved, you can no longer have plastic surgery.
5. "I see a problem."
This may be a good reason for surgery. However, I advise you to be careful, as this can lead to a permanent desire for more surgery simply because you think you are seeing a problem.
6. "I expect improvement, but not perfection."
This is a good starting point for anyone considering plastic surgery. There is nothing wrong with what you want to improve what you already have.
7. "I have support from my family and friends."
Support from friends and family is important when performing any surgical procedure. Keep in mind that seeking support is different from the desired approval.
8. "I am financially stable."
Cosmetic surgery is a luxury. Do not do plastic surgery only to stay in debt. You not only need to financially plan the operation, but you also need to plan for the opportunity, perhaps as it may be, of complications that can add to the recovery time, as well as to financial obligations.
9. "Do I have time?"
When evaluating their recovery, most patients simply consider the length of the actual operation. I constantly remind patients that the operation includes consultations, preoperative preparation, the operation itself and the recovery period. Only a physical recovery can last from one to three weeks, and in some cases even longer. Emotional and psychological adjustment may take at least four to six weeks.
Use these ideas as recommendations when considering plastic surgery. Feel free to add to this list.
F: Find a suitable plastic surgeon.
I cannot emphasize this enough: at present, in practice there are many highly qualified doctors; There are many inferior doctors practicing as well. Numerous sources are available to help you find a good plastic surgeon. Avoid relying on the Yellow Pages or similar advertisements. Instead, get a referral from a family doctor who knows a surgeon with the appropriate qualifications and reputation. A friend, employee, or relative who has the same procedure you are considering may be a good reference, especially if they are satisfied with their result. Another source is referral from your local or national plastic surgery society, as well as referral from a local hospital or medical association.
The American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons (ASPRS) has a nationwide referral service available to anyone interested. You can call (800) 766-4955 or write to ASPRS, 444 East Algonquin Road, Arlington Heights, IL 60005-4664. In California, you can call the California Society of Plastic Surgeons.
E: Surgeon evaluation.
Cosmetic surgery is still a surgical procedure, and once in a lifetime, things can go wrong. If this happens, a qualified surgeon can and usually does not give you serious problems. During and after the surgical procedure, a qualified surgeon can identify and treat problems before they become serious. That is why it is important to evaluate prospective surgeons in a timely manner. Completely check qualifications and credentials. Call or visit your local medical library and consult the Directory of Medical Specialists, which lists cardiology-certified surgeons and clarifies data on education, training and membership in professional organizations. ASPRS is a great source to use. To become a member, an ASPRS surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, graduated from undergraduate and medical school, and also approved a general surgery program of at least three years and an approved plastic surgery service from two to three years. Board certification is carried out after completion of the written and oral exam. Look for the ASPRS logo when choosing a plastic surgeon.
During the consultation, scan the office for plates with diplomatic and certification documents. Most surgeons are proud of their achievements and are happy to demonstrate them. In addition, you can seek help from a doctor. Make sure that you are knowledgeable about the procedure in question, therefore, considering it with your doctor, you understand the medical terms. Information on accredited surgeons, facilities and available operating procedures can be obtained via the Internet at http://www.plasticsurgery.org or by calling the numbers listed below:
American Board of Plastic Surgery: (215) 587-9322
American Society of Plastic Surgeons: (800) 635-0635
Do not be afraid to ask any questions - what you do not know can harm you! ASPRS recommends that you ask the plastic surgeon the following questions:
- Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
- How long have you been practicing?
- Do you have hospital privileges to perform this procedure? In which hospital
- Where will you perform my operation?
- What are the risks associated with my procedure?
- How many procedures of this type have you performed?
- Let me contact some of your former patients who have had this procedure?
- How long can you expect the recovery period?
- Should I take time from work? How long?
- How much will my procedure cost?
At a minimum, confirm that the surgeon is certified on board, performs operations in an accredited institution and is recommended to those you know and trust.
