Cosmetic Surgery: 4 Considerations to Make

No matter what your reasons are for considering cosmetic surgery, if you are thinking of undergoing a procedure, it’s important that you are both physically and mentally prepared and understand the risks that are associated with the kind of surgery that you are considering. We’ve put together some of the most important health factors to think about when it comes to cosmetic procedures. 

#1. Get to Know Your Allergies:

First of all, it’s important that you are completely open about allergies that you have, from sensitive skin to bigger allergies that could pose a larger risk to your health. Some dressings contain ingredients that you may react to, such as rubber, latex, silicones and acrylics. If you’re not sure about any allergies that you have, it might be worth getting allergy tested before your procedure to make sure. Be sure to tell your surgeon about even any minor reactions that you have had in the past from items such as silver or nickel jewellery, watch straps, waistbands or bra straps, as this can provide them with valuable information about any potential allergens. 

#2. You Might Need to Lose Weight:

In general, cosmetic surgery results tend to be better for those with a body mass index (BMI) that is under 30. If you are overweight or obese and planning to undergo surgery, it’s important that you are aware of the additional stress and pressure that this can put on your body. Your surgeon will likely advise you if you will need to lose any additional weight before you can undergo the procedure. If you suffer from any additional conditions brought on by extra weight, such as sleep apnoea, it’s important to tell your surgeon so that they can plan accordingly. 

#3. You’ll Need to Quit Smoking and Drinking:

Many people don’t realize the importance of quitting cigarettes and cutting back on alcohol before undergoing a cosmetic procedure. Smoking in particular should be avoided for some time before and after the surgery, as nicotine causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing their size and restricting the blood supply to tissues and organs, which can slow down the healing process of your wound. And, compared to non-smokers, smokers need 33% more anesthetic and at least 23% more pain relief during and after a surgical procedure. 

#4. Be Ready for the Worst to Happen:

The good news is that the majority of cosmetic surgery procedures go smoothly, and most patients are back on their feet in no time. However, there are many risks involved with going under the knife, so it’s important that you are somewhat prepared for the worst to happen. Consider the emotional impact of the surgery on you, too – if you have suffered with mental health difficulties in the past, it might be worth undergoing a psychological screening before surgery. And, understand how claims for medical negligence work in case you need to go down that path.

Cosmetic surgery is becoming increasingly popular, but it’s not without its risks. Being ready is important for quick and hassle-free healing.

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