Plastic Surgery

Are you considering plastic surgery? Have you decided where you're going? What you're going to have done? Have you invested time and energy deciding why you are considering this route? What is prompting you to do this? What do you expect to happen when you're done?

As I continue my weight loss journey, I often wonder, "What if?" What if my boobs were bigger? What if I sucked out some of the extra fat? Is that cheating? Would I be happier doing it "the old fashioned way?" What if this is the wrong decision? Who would steer me in the right direction if I was making the wrong decision?

Recently, I came across an interesting article about this topic in the British "Times Online." They highlighted a journalist's quest for plastic surgery, and the clinics she visited. It was a disturbing article. This journalist is a young woman in her late 20's, who researched what would happen if she went to clinics, requesting Botos in her forehead and lipo in her stomach and legs. She had a very healthy and realistic body image going into the quest, but left two clinics feeling that she wasn't all that she should be. She was shocked at how easily she was being persuaded to consider plastic surgery. Only one clinic said that she didn't need the excessive methods. The Mya (Make Yourself Amazing) Clinic said that she was fine, and that although they would do the surgery, in all honesty, she didn't need it. She was a little put off by that at first, because they didn't enthusiastically embrace her surgery plan as readily as the first two clinics did. This eventually concerned her, and she realized that it was a good thing the clinic was like that. This clinic offers a number of both surical and non-surgical procedures, and counseling to help you come to YOUR decision.

Here is an insight of things to consider when looking into plastic surgery:

* Make sure your surgeon is certified * Check their specialties to ensure that they are licensed to do the procedure you're seeking
* Look for a physician who is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery
* Ask friends and associates for referrals
* Research the surgeries fully before you commit

The American Society of Plastic Surgery also offers these guidelines:

Five Essential Steps Before Plastic Surgery

1.  Do Your Homework Research the procedure, the benefits and the risks.
2. Have Realistic Expectations Ask your plastic surgeon about the benefits and risks of your surgery; discuss your expectations and understand side effects and recovery time.
3. Be Informed Talk to patients who have had your procedure so you know what to expect.
4. Ask Tough Questions Consult with your plastic surgeon and discuss your full medical history to determine the most appropriate treatment.
5. Choose a surgeon who is qualified, trained and properly certified. They adhere to a strict code of ethics, receive continuous education and operate only in accredited facilities.