Considering a little nip here or tuck there? Be sure to ask yourself or your doctor these five vital questions before going under the knife.
1. Why are you getting plastic surgery?
In case you missed it, BlackDoctor.org recently spoke with Lifetime’s “Atlanta Plastic” very own Dr. Wright Jones, who stressed “doing it for the right reasons.” Plastic surgery should never, ever be a “quick fix for self-esteem.”
If anything, going under the knife should be a “last resort” to achieving the body you’ve always dreamed of — first by adopting a less intensive approach: diet and exercise.
2. What are your qualifications?
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Look for a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. ““Do your research. There are a lot of fake boards that have been formed – this can be confusing for people. The mission of this board is to promote safe, ethical and successful plastic surgery by maintaining high standards for education and certification,” explained Dr. Jones.
Also, ask what kind of training the doctor has received in relation to the specific procedure you’re considering—you don’t want someone whose training only extends to breast augmentation when you’re looking to get a butt lift.
3. How often have you [the plastic surgeon] SUCCESSFULLY completed the procedure?
Ideally, he or she should have done the same procedure hundreds of times, over many years.
“Just because a site’s pictures look good, doesn’t mean they specialize in that service. A surgeon could offer a dozen different procedures but only have completed them once or twice. Read reviews and select someone who has successfully completed Brazilian butt lift, rhinoplasty, breasts implants, etc. countless times,” added Dr. Jones.
4. What are the potential risks and complications?
Although pain is expected during recovery time, know the risks and complications associated with anesthesia, possible infection, or worse, death. Also, steer clear of plastic surgeons or “cosmetic spas” that promise a risk-free procedure. This is a HUGE red flag, as there’s no such thing.
5. Where will the surgery take place?
Dr. Jones revealed many black market and overseas “surgeons” complete cosmetic procedures in “sketchy” locations, like back alley hotel rooms, suspicious off the map properties; or unaccredited doctor’s offices. If you’re getting a procedure done by a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the only place you should be operated on is in a hospital or accredited* surgical facility – like an outpatient or ambulatory surgery center.
*Accreditation means that the facility adheres to strict safety and quality standards. You can double-check accreditation here. (http://www.aaaasf.org/)
