Who is an appropriate candidate for plastic surgery?

There are essentially two categories of patients who would be considered good candidates for cosmetic surgery. The first category would include people who are concerned by a physical characteristic that they would like to change about their appearance. These patients will usually feel good about the results and surgery will help them keep a positive image about themselves.

The second category would include people who may have a physical defect that has diminished their self-esteem or their self-image. These patients may take some time to adjust after surgery, as rebuilding confidence takes time. However, with time, these patients' self-image is strengthened, and they will feel good about their surgery.

It is important to remember that plastic surgery will create both physical changes and changes in one’s self-esteem. One should not contemplate plastic surgery in the hope that it will necessarily change one’s relationships with others. While it is possible that friends and loved ones will respond positively to your change in appearance and self-confidence, but you must understand and accept the fact that plastic surgery will not cause dramatic changes in people other than yourself.

Who is an inappropriate candidate for plastic surgery?

Not everyone is an appropriate candidate for plastic surgery. There are a number of Individuals who might not be appropriate candidates for plastic surgery such as those who are in an immediate crisis, such as a divorce, the death of a spouse or loved one, or the loss of a job; those with unrealistic expectations, those with obsessions of perfection, and those who are impossible to please. The latter category of patients often have been to more than one plastic surgeon before or have been operated on before for the same condition and still cannot be satisfied.

What are the different cosmetic surgical procedures that are available?

The following are some of the cosmetic surgical procedures that we offer. Please understand that the circumstances and experience of every individual will be different. Therefore, it is difficult if not impossible to state for certain every patients’ situation and experience.

Also understand that surgery is not an exact science, and that all surgeries, no matter how minor, involve possible risks and complications. Some of these can be quite serious, including the possibility of infection, bleeding, blood clots, and anesthestic complications. Others are more common and treatable with medications, such as postop pain, areas of numbness,and scarring.

• Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
• Breast Enlargement (Augmentation Mammaplasty)
• Breast Lift (Mastopexy)
• Collagen / Fat Injections
• Ear Surgery (Otoplasty)
• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)
• Face-lift (Rhytidectomy)
• Facial Implants
• Forehead Lift (Browlift)
• Laser Facial Resurfacing
• Liposuction (Suction-Assisted Lipectomy)
• Male Breast Reduction (Gynecomastia)
• Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

What about silicone breast implants?

Information for Women on Silicone Breast Implant Surgery is a patient education booklet designed to provide an overview on the benefits, risks and potential complications of plastic surgery using silicone gel implants. It presents information on issues to consider when making a decision on whether implant surgery is right for you. Financial considerations of correcting problems that may occur and insurance issues are presented as well. Finally, for those women who choose to have surgery with silicone implants, information about selecting a size or type of implant is offered.

How do I choose a plastic surgeon?

• Members of The American Society of Plastic Surgeons®
• Form and Function
• Did You Know?
• Why is an ASPS Member Surgeon the Best Choice for Me?
• What Can I Expect?
• Questions to Ask When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon
• Questions to Ask Your ASPS Member Surgeon