With close to 23 million cosmetic and reconstructive procedures taking place in 2017 alone, plastic surgery is at an all-time high. No matter what area of your body you are looking to change, you are not alone when it comes to cosmetic surgery; however, just because there are more cosmetic procedure patients than ever before does not mean that you shouldn’t put some thought into your procedure. Here are some of the questions you should ask yourself before making the decision to go under the knife. For a knowledgeable plastic surgeon in Houston that can help you answer these questions more effectively, contact Dr. Linville at Linville Plastic Surgery.

What’s Your Motivation?

Pinpointing the exact reason why you are considering the procedure is the most important first step. Have you always wanted the specific procedure? Is this an area of insecurity that you have always had? You do not want to make the decision to get cosmetic surgery on an impulse because, just like a tattoo, this is a decision that has consequences and will be a permanent part of you forever. Ultimately, you want to make sure that this procedure will be something that makes you happy and will not be something you regret. With that in mind, also be aware of whether this was your decision or if your main motivation is pressure from a significant other, friend, or family member. This is something that you need to live with and although you should take heed of other’s opinions and experiences, it is ultimately up to you.

Can You Afford the Procedure?

This should be another major factor in your decision because this also has long lasting effects. Not only will you need to live with the procedure forever, but you also must live with the financial effects of going under the knife. An American Society of Plastic Surgeons report found Americans spent more than 16 billion dollars on cosmetic plastic surgeries and minimally invasive procedures in 2016. Cosmetic surgery was once reserved for the rich and famous but has been utilized by the middle class increasingly as the years continue. Use every resource to your advantage and ask your surgeon about payment plan options because chances are your health care provider will not cover these types of surgery. Be sure to contact Dr. Linville if you are looking for a plastic surgeon in Houston and discuss all the payment plans available.

Have You Done Your Research About Your Doctor?

Don’t let marketing and buzzwords fool you; it is still important to do your due diligence in deciding who you will use as your surgeon. Many surgeons will promise you the world because they want your business, but it is important that you personally look at their portfolio and read their reviews. This is the person and facility that you are entrusting your body to, so it should not be taken lightly. Any surgeon who is respectable and well renowned will have no trouble showing off their amazing reviews. If they try and hide their past patients’ testimonials, that should give you some reason for concern.

Are You Ready for The Recovery?

The most intense part of the plastic surgery experience is not the procedure itself but is the recovery afterwards. Many procedures require a few weeks of recovery, so be sure to plan accordingly. You will most likely not be able to do chores, go to work, or perform your daily responsibilities. Don’t let your enthusiasm blind you to the planning that is required for a cosmetic surgery. Make sure that you have help with housework, grocery shopping, cooking, taking care of your kids, or any other duties you may not be able to perform afterwards. Cosmetic surgery is still a surgery and should be treated with as much preparation and planning.

Plastic Surgeon in Houston

Now that you have considered all these questions, you can be prepared to make an informed decision on your procedure. For any questions you can’t answer yourself, do not hesitate to contact a knowledgeable plastic surgeon in Houston, such as Dr. Linville; you can contact Linville Plastic Surgery here.