by Chakira Ward

Created on: April 26, 2009   Last Updated: April 27, 2009

If you are not able to embrace your flaws, cosmetic surgery is a quick fix for all of your body image issues. Choosing to have a cosmetic procedure is a huge decision, before you make it official, be sure to do your research. Prior to finding a plastic surgeon you should know exactly what you're getting yourself into....

What are the risks and side effects of your procedure? During any surgical procedure, whether it be cosmetic or medically necessary, there is a 50/50 chance of having complications. For this reason, it is very important to weigh the pros and cons, you may wake up from your surgery and be completely happy with the new you, or you might wake up with a serious problem that you didn't have before.

What is the cost of the procedure? If you are not able to pay in full, research some of the financing programs that may be available for you. Keep in mind that more expensive does not mean more experienced, the prices can increase due to geographical stats, or if the surgeon is in higher demand.

After conducting research, it's time to select your cosmetic surgeon. Search for a board certified surgeon with up-to-date credentials, and find out how many times he/she has performed your specific procedure. Also, take a look at the before and after pictures of his/her patients. Once you have selected your surgeon, it's time for your consult, bring pictures to give the surgeon a clear image of what type of results you are looking for, and get all of the need-to-know information you possibly can....

Are you a good candidate for plastic surgery? Depending on the procedure, the doctor will determine whether or not plastic surgery is necessary. For instance, some patients requesting tummy tucks or liposuction can do exercises to tighten up their problem areas. A good surgeon will suggest that you try working out instead of using plastic surgery as an option, and would request a pre-operative physical to make sure there aren't any underlying illnesses that would promote complications.

What results can you expect? It is extremely important to have an idea of what your results will look like, you might be looking for perfection, and perfection is not always possible. Being aware of what the surgeon's expectations are will save you alot of shock and disappointment.

What is the recovery time? Make arrangements to take as much time off as you can for your recovery, following the instructions of the surgeon will result in a healthy outcome.

What follow up care is included? Follow up care is necessary to make sure that you are healing properly, complications can arise during and after a procedure.

Cosmetic surgery should be your last resort, there are people in the world that will love you just the way you are. There are many success stories, but don't forget about the plastic surgery horror stories. Remember, first love and last love is self love.

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