Cosmetic surgery has become increasingly accessible to people other than the rich and famous. With the rise of Instagram beauty standards, more and more people are willing to go under the knife to alter their appearance. Before considering elective surgeries like these, it’s important to know what you’re getting into when you decide to have cosmetic surgery. Every procedure comes with risks, and as someone who cares about their health, you want to know everything.

Before you make any decisions, considering the following advice:

1. Realistic expectations

It is important to remember that cosmetic surgeries can only alter the appearance of your body parts. This correction is to make you look better and feel more confident about yourself. However, it cannot bring changes to behavioral aspects such as an imperfect marriage, improper work-life, among others.

2. Be prepared to handle additional expenses

In most cases, cosmetic surgeries are not covered by medical insurance companies. It is wise to decide on cosmetic surgery only if you are financially ready for such expenses. These surgeries include heavy consultation fees, follow-up and extra correction charges, apart from the regular surgery charges.

3. Be aware of the risk involved

These surgeries do involve the risk of imperfection. It is advisable to be prepared for correction surgeries as well if the first surgery didn’t go well. Apart from this, the surgery also involves allergies, excessive bleeding, and infections too. It is important to share your complete medical history with your doctor before you undergo the surgery.

4. Follow a strict diet and behavioral plan

Certain diet plans and behavioral plans must be maintained before and after surgery for a quick healing procedure. Doctors usually suggest smokers to quit smoking at least 4 to 5 weeks before and after surgery to speed up the healing process. Also, it is important to follow a strict diet, medication, and exercise routines as instructed by your doctor to avoid risks like infections, blood clots, and chest congestion.

5. Know more about your surgeon

It is very important to do complete research on the list of surgeons you wish to consult for plastic surgery. Make sure the doctor has all valid certification to conduct the surgery. It is always good to consult two or three doctors before you finalize your doctor for surgery. Choosing a doctor who gives you a realistic expectation is a wise decision. Do not fall for fancy and false promises. Do a complete research on the pros and cons of the surgery along with your doctor’s advice before you opt to go under the knife.

6. Be prepared to ask questions

Clear all doubts before you say yes to the surgery. You must remember that once the surgery is completed you cannot reverse it. So, ask as many questions as possible to clear all your doubts.

Some of the questions that you need to ask your doctor are as follows:

• After submitting or sharing your medical history, ask if you are fit to undergo the surgery?
• What are the expenses as well as the break up of surgery expenses from the beginning to the end?
• What are the risk factors involved?
• What is the recovery period of cosmetic surgery? How is it going to be monitored?
• Can you have a complete picture copy of the procedure before the surgery to be well prepared?
• How long will you be hospitalized and what type of anesthesia will be used?