Cosmetic surgery is a big deal, like getting a tattoo, once it’s in place it can be impossible to go back to its ‘complete original form,’ so ensuring that you are considering every possible aspect is a necessity. But what should be considered?
Firstly, it’s important to know the difference between the two types of surgeries
- Cosmetic surgery
Surgery performed on face or body to enhance appearance by personal election. - Plastic surgery
Surgery dedicated to reconstructing face or body due to congenital disability, trauma, burn or disease.
I’m going to be addressing the key considerations that should be looked into before taking the plunge into cosmetic surgery…
Cosmetic surgery is often undertaken as a result of feeling that surgery, whether it be breast, nose, lips injections etc. will enhance your attractiveness and make you feel more comfortable or happy with an aspect of yourself.
This is okay! People often feel shame about the thought of getting cosmetic surgery. However, you shouldn’t, as long as you have considered every aspect before you’ve made up your mind that it’s the way to go.
#1. Surgeons can’t change how you feel on the inside
The first point to consider is, will having surgery fix your underlying problem. Dove surveyed more than 10,500 women and girls in the Dove Global Beauty and Confidence Report, taking answers from girls aged 10-60 across 13 countries around the world. The statistics were listed as a critical issue worldwide.
- Only 20% of Australians were happy with the way they look, Japan coming last at 8% and South Africa coming first at 64%
- 9/10 women opt out of important life activities because of the negative way they feel about their appearance
- 9/10 women stop themselves from eating or put their health at risk because they feel negative about their appearance
- 5/10 women have not been assertive about their decisions because of their negative feelings toward their appearance
- 77% Australian women blamed this on ‘unrealistic standards’ set by media
These results indicate that majority of women feel negative towards the way they appear, so if you are considering cosmetic surgery as a confidence booster, or think it will fix all your insecurities, think again. Perhaps it’s time to tap into the underlying issues and focus on creating the best and happiest version of yourself before you consider surgery.
#2. Can you afford it financially
Secondly, can you afford cosmetic surgery? Surgery is not always cheap so ensuring that you can budget for the total costs of the operation financially before making any further decisions is critical. Some points to consider when financial planning around your surgery
- Cheaper options are NOT better options
- Will your Private health fund cover costs
- Can SuperCare cover the costs?
Many people see cheap online deals or look into overseas surgery because of more affordable costs, don’t be one of these people. Cheaper options can often mean that the there is a lack of regulations, the practitioner is not trained correctly and the product being used is inferior.
Censor in chief of the Australasian College of Cosmetic Surgery (ACCS) Dr John Flynn said that “At least 15 percent of my breast surgery practice is correcting problems from overseas.” You are better off paying the extra money and ensuring that a safe, high standard job is being done.
Private health funds do not cover costs of cosmetic surgery procedures; they will only cover costs if the procedure is considered medically necessary to maintain your health.
- Breast implants after breast cancer
- Breast cancer removal surgery
- Skin grafts
- Liposuction due to morbid obesity
Other elective cosmetic surgeries such as the nose, breasts, liposuction are very rarely covered by health funds, however giving your health fund a call to see what their policies are is a good idea before planning your surgery budget.
#3. Get a recommendation from your GP
When considering surgery, it is essential to consult with your GP first. If you are on any medication or have any medical history, it is critical that you receive a recommendation from your GP and discuss all risks. If after GP consultation you have decided to go through with surgery ensure your surgeon is reputable, well known and your GP approves.
#4. Results may not be instant
It is essential to understand that results may not be immediate. When planning for surgery allow recovery time and don’t be disheartened if you don’t see results instantly. The body takes time to heal, so it is important to be patient and listen to your body.
#5. When in doubt, wait.
If you have any doubts about the procedure, surgeon or are just not quite confident yet about things, wait. Be patient with the process, research everything you need to know, consider the risks, get a few different consultations and be 100% sure before going ahead with anything.
