I often get asked by patients if I think they are ready to have plastic surgery. My initial reponse is always the same….if you think you want or need it…then you are ready. Something as elective and personal as plastic surgery can’t really be decided by the doctor, I simply decide what the best treatment options are for you and help educate you to a decision on how to deal with your concern.
While that is an initial response, a more in-depth answer would include the following three very relevant issues. 1) Do your homework on treatment options for your concern first. While the internet is full of inaccurate and misleading information, there is also a wealth of accurate information on any plastic surgery topic. Review it and bring in your questions. 2) Make sure you can afford it. That is something that I as a plastic surgeon can not help you with. Only you know your finances and whether your plastic surgery desires fit into your budget and were it sits on the priority scale of your life. 3) Be prepared for the risk of potential complications. Not all plastic surgery procedures turn out perfect. While most ‘complications’ are minor, they can and do occur with some frequency. Allot time in your schedule for this possibility…and have have the psychological mindset that it can happen and its occurrence will not be devastating for you.
If you have thought through these significant issues with your plastic surgery procedure, then you are indeed ready in my opinion.
Dr Barry Eppley
Indianapolis, Indiana