Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD - The Aesthetic Institute
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Category: Cosmetic Surgery

Preparing for Cosmetic Surgery: Expert Advice from Top Surgeons

A woman getting her nose checked before cosmetic surgery.

Millions of people each year decide to change something about their looks—hence the growing popularity behind cosmetic surgery. There are lots of procedures you can get. But one thing is true for all of them: you can’t just walk into a surgeon’s office and come out with a new look; it’s not that simple. There’s a whole preparation process involved, and without knowing all the facts about it, things can quickly get overwhelming. So, what does preparing for cosmetic surgery look like, and what is there to know? The truth is, it depends on the surgery.

Nonetheless, we’ve recently picked the brains of the best surgeons from clinics worldwide and have compiled their top advice regarding cosmetic surgery preparation into one place. Then, we’ve singled out the things that apply to all types of surgery and are bringing them to you!

Preparing for cosmetic surgery 101

Plastic/cosmetic surgery is a medical field that’s becoming increasingly popular as the years pass.

Did you know that between 2021 and 2022, there was an 11.2% increase in cosmetic surgeries performed?

Numbers for 2023 haven’t been fully analyzed as of yet. Nonetheless, considering the demand for certain procedures, they are sure to match the growing trend.

A woman happy because of the results of cosmetic surgery.

More and more people are opting for cosmetic surgery.

If you are interested in joining those who have already had cosmetic surgery, you need to prepare for it properly!

With that in mind, here’s what you must do pre-op to ensure the best possible outcome and the shortest recovery!

1. Determine your goals for plastic surgery

Don’t book a consult with a surgeon until you are crystal clear on what you want.

Ask yourself:

  • What exactly bothers you about your appearance?
  • How long has it been an issue?
  • Are there any non-surgical alternatives?
  • How do you think the change will impact your life?

Write down all of your answers and then define your goal.

Be as specific as possible.

After all, the more specific you are, the better your surgeon can help you achieve the desired outcome.

A blank piece of paper and pens.

While you’re preparing for cosmetic surgery, ask yourself if you really need it, and write down your answer.

2. Research the procedure you’d like to get

You wouldn’t buy a car without researching it beforehand. The same goes for cosmetic surgery. So, as soon as you’ve figured out what you want, inform yourself about the procedure.

You want to investigate:

  • What does the procedure involve?
  • What are the potential risks?
  • How long does recovery last?
  • What results can you realistically expect?

Don’t rely on the before-and-after photos on clinic websites. They’re nothing but the best-case scenario, not a guarantee.

Instead, look for results published in medical journals and patient forums.

If you’re unsure about something or research alone doesn’t solve all your queries, remember to note them down and consult a surgeon for answers.

3. Choose a highly-qualified surgeon

Your choice of surgeon highly influences the outcome. You may be tempted to pick the first name that pops up on Google or the one with the prettiest Instagram account. Don’t do it!

You want your surgeon to have board certification and years of experience, specifically with the procedure you want.

Look at the before and after photos of their actual patients and the reviews they left. Take these with a grain of salt, however, as:

  • A: The photos may be the best results (not the ones you’ll get),
  • B: People are more likely to leave a review when they’re unhappy.

Now, say you found a surgeon who ticks all the boxes. You still need to meet them in person to make sure you’re comfortable with them.

During the consultation with a surgeon, don’t hesitate to ask questions and share your goals with them. But even if you don’t speak up first, a high-quality surgeon will prompt you to discuss your wishes and expectations to ensure you’re both on the same page. In order to achieve natural-looking results, it is crucial to discuss visions and goals with the patient because sometimes what is natural to one person isn’t necessarily natural to somebody else.

Of course, if you aren’t happy with the first opinion, you can get a second or even a third! This is your body we’re talking about, after all, and choosing your surgeon is not the time to cut corners.

4. Learn what to expect during the recovery phase

Recovery isn’t instantaneous. Depending on the surgery, it can take days, weeks, or even months to recover fully. Ask your surgeon for an estimate of how long the recovery will take and if there are any special care or treatments you might need during it.

As for the side effects of surgery, prepare to experience swelling, bruising, and general discomfort. To get through these in an easier and faster way, make sure you follow your surgeon’s post-op instructions.

It’s also important to understand that you won’t be able to go back to your old way of living right after surgery. So, plan accordingly for your downtime. Arrange help around the house, get sufficient time off work, and stock up on recovery necessities beforehand. These include comfortable clothes, prescribed medications, and items that can make resting easier, such as extra pillows or ice packs.

5. Prepare physically and mentally for surgery

The process of preparing for cosmetic surgery involves mental preparation as much as physical preparation.

On the physical side, you want to be in the best possible health. So, yes, this means saying no to cigarettes and alcohol and eating a balanced diet. You’re also encouraged to exercise regularly, although you’ll want to rest a day or a few days before the procedure (the timeframe depends on the surgery).

Mentally, it’s about going into the process with a positive yet realistic mindset that you get from educating yourself. To do so, feel free to talk to people who have had the procedure, read patient testimonials, or join support groups to ease your worries.

A person performing research on their laptop while preparing for cosmetic surgery.

Educate yourself about the procedure you’d like to undergo.

Alt-tag: A person performing research on their laptop while preparing for cosmetic surgery.

Preparing for cosmetic surgery with all the facts in check

As you can see, preparing for cosmetic surgery involves getting all the facts—from figuring out why you want to get it to researching the procedure and finding yourself a qualified surgeon. Now that you know what to do pre-op, it’s time to apply it. Research away, book a consultation, and don’t hesitate to ask questions. It’s your body we’re talking about, after all.

Biggest Health Benefits of Cosmetic Surgery

woman having a cosmetic procedure

If you’ve ever considered cosmetic surgery, you may have wondered about its potential impact on your physical health. The truth is, while it’s often associated with purely aesthetic goals, there are many health benefits of cosmetic surgery. Certain procedures can alleviate specific physical symptoms and ensure long-term well-being.

Improved mobility

One way cosmetic surgery can positively affect physical health is by improving mobility. For example, if you have excess skin after significant weight loss, a body lift can help remove it and make it easier for you to move around comfortably.

Similarly, a breast reduction can alleviate the strain on your back and shoulders, making engaging in physical activities such as exercise easier.

focused woman practicing yoga

Certain cosmetic procedures improve posture, reduce back pain, and improve body mobility.

Reduced pain

Cosmetic surgery can also be a powerful tool for reducing pain. For example, if you have a deviated septum causing breathing difficulties, a rhinoplasty can correct the problem and alleviate any associated pain. Similarly, breast reduction surgery can reduce the strain on your neck and back, which can be especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from chronic pain in these areas.

Reduced headaches and teeth-grinding

Botox injections have become widely used for reducing headaches and teeth-grinding. Since botox treatment works by relaxing the muscles that contribute to tension headaches and migraines, the frequency and severity of these conditions can be significantly reduced. Additionally, Botox injections can help minimize teeth-grinding, which can cause various oral health issues, including worn teeth, jaw pain, and headaches. By reducing these symptoms, Botox can improve your overall quality of life and contribute to better physical health. If you suffer from chronic headaches or teeth-grinding, talk to your cosmetic surgeon about the potential benefits of Botox injections.

Improved Breathing

In addition to pain reduction, improved breathing is also one of the major health benefits of cosmetic surgery. This is particularly true for individuals with structural abnormalities in their noses or airways. Rhinoplasty and septoplasty are two procedures that can be used to correct these issues and improve your ability to breathe. That can improve your physical health and positively impact your quality of life by allowing you to engage in physical activities without experiencing breathing difficulties.

Improved Posture

Specific cosmetic procedures, such as breast reduction or a tummy tuck, can improve your posture. By reducing excess weight and tissue in the chest or abdomen, these procedures can help you stand up straighter, reducing the strain on your back and neck muscles. Improved posture not only looks better, but it can also help reduce pain and prevent long-term musculoskeletal issues.

Improved skin health

Cosmetic surgery can also have a positive impact on your skin health. For example, a facelift can help tighten and firm the skin on your face, reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines. Similarly, a chemical peel can help improve your skin’s overall tone and texture by removing dead skin cells and promoting the growth of new, healthy skin. Moreover, cosmetic surgery effectively treats serious conditions like skin cancer.

Man mixing the facial mask

Men and women alike find cosmetic surgery beneficial for treating skin cancer.

Reduced risk of chronic diseases

Several cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction or bariatric surgery, can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases. For example, liposuction can remove excess fat from the body, reducing the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Similarly, bariatric surgery can help individuals achieve significant weight loss, reducing their risk of obesity-related conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and sleep apnea.

Don’t schedule cosmetic surgery before your relocation day

If you’re planning a move soon, it’s essential to consider the timing of your cosmetic surgery carefully. While cosmetic procedures can have significant physical and emotional benefits, they also require a period of recovery and downtime. Depending on the type of procedure you’re having, you may need to avoid physical activity, lift heavy objects, or engage in other strenuous activities for several weeks or even months after the surgery.

If you’re planning a move, this can make the process significantly more challenging and stressful. To ensure your move goes smoothly and avoid complicating your recovery process, it’s generally best to avoid scheduling cosmetic surgery within a few months of your relocation date. Moreover, relocation experts at rockstarpromovers.com claim that moving runs more efficiently after all critical events, medical procedures, etc. So, give yourself enough time after any surgery before you tackle all the necessary moving tasks.

Make sure to choose the right aesthetic institute

Choosing the right aesthetic institute for your cosmetic surgery is crucial to ensure a successful and safe procedure. Before scheduling your surgery, take the time to research and compare different institutes in your area, and choose one with a solid reputation and a track record of successful procedures. Look for an institute with a team of experienced and board-certified surgeons who specialize in the type of procedure you’re interested in. Additionally, ensure the institute has state-of-the-art equipment and facilities and a comprehensive pre-operative and post-operative care plan to ensure a smooth and successful recovery. It’s also a good idea to read reviews and testimonials from previous patients to understand their experience and satisfaction with the institute.

surgeon explaining health benefits of cosmetic surgery

An expert surgeon can give you more insight into the health benefits of cosmetic surgery.

Final thoughts

Discuss the potential health benefits of cosmetic surgery and risks with your surgeon to determine whether it’s the right choice for you. By carefully weighing the pros and cons of the procedure, you can make an informed decision about whether cosmetic surgery is the best option for your overall health and well-being. Just make sure you’re undergoing any surgery at a renowned aesthetic center.

Am I Ready for Plastic Surgery?

The demand for plastic surgery continues to stay on the rise. According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery 2016 statistics, more than $15 billion dollars were spent on plastic surgery in the last year. It isn’t surprising though, as most people care about their looks and want to stick to the societal standard to maintain a young and fresh appearance. Some might try to improve their body and/or face with diet, exercise, and at-home treatments, but even with rigorous efforts, they have little to no success. The only way for some people to meet their aesthetic goals is through plastic surgery. However, plastic surgery is a serious process, and it may not be for everyone. How do you know if you are ready for plastic surgery?

Are You a Plastic Surgery Candidate?Liposuction Patient Before and After photo by Dr. Wald

There are several factors patients must consider before they undergo a plastic surgery procedure. Making sure you are ready, emotionally and physically, for surgery will ensure the most comfortable and safe surgical process possible. Here are some questions you should ask yourself first:

  • Are you realistic in your expectations?: Plastic surgery is designed to enhance and rejuvenate a person’s natural features. Patients should be realistic in their expectations. They should be aware that plastic surgery is not going to provide them with a dramatic change but rather a more youthful, enhanced version of themselves.
  • Are you physically healthy?: Surgery involves anesthesia and recovery. Someone who is not physically healthy has a higher risk of complications. Patients should be honest with their surgeon about their medical history and any current medical conditions. If a surgical procedure appears unsuitable for a patient, Dr. Wald offers a variety of non-surgical treatments, such as SculpSure®, that provide beautiful results without as many risks and with minimal recovery time.
  • Have you already tried diet and exercise to achieve your goals?: Patients considering body contouring procedures such as liposuction should not treat plastic surgery as a weight loss method. It is recommended that patients be at or near their ideal body weight with only a few pockets of fat they would like to target.
  • Are you willing to maintain your results?: Plastic surgery is not a permanent solution to one’s body and facial flaws. The best patients are willing to maintain their results with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Patients should stick to a regular exercise regimen and skin care routine to achieve a longer-lasting outcome. It is also highly recommended to refrain from smoking and consuming alcohol in excess.

Schedule Your Consultation Today!

Are you a candidate for cosmetic surgery? If you answered yes to the above questions, now is the time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wald. He can discuss your goals and concerns as well as evaluate your anatomy and health to help you decide if you are suited for a cosmetic procedure, whether surgical or non-surgical. Dr. Wald will go over all of your options and design a personalized surgery plan.

Dr. Wald is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is skilled and experienced in performing several procedures and techniques for the face, breasts, and body. Schedule your consultation by calling us at (714) 312-3549 or fill out our online contact form.

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Robert Wald, MD
100 E. Valencia Mesa Drive, Suite 300
Fullerton, CA 92835


Phone: 714-312-3549
Fax: 714-738-1862

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