Plastic Surgery and Emotional Health

Feb 11, 2015 | Uncategorized

Plastic surgery is all about the exterior, right? Cosmetic procedures allow men and women to change the aspects of their physical appearance they’re displeased with. Preparing for plastic surgery should mean kicking habits like smoking, following your physician’s pre-op orders, planning for recovery, and getting ready to greet a whole new you.

Unfortunately, plastic surgery isn’t just about the body, it’s about the mind, as well. Plastic surgery allows patients to renew their confidence, eradicate body shame, and improve their self-image. Physical preparation for procedures is important, but patients should prepare emotionally for plastic surgery, too.

Post-Surgical Sadness

Most patients don’t anticipate being sad after their cosmetic surgeries. After all, each procedure is personalized based on the patient’s needs, desires, and perceived flaws. But post-surgical depression is a real phenomenon that many patients experience in the weeks after their procedures. Known causes of post-surgical sadness include:

• A history of anxiety or depression
• Emotional reactions to anesthesia or pain medication
• Depending on others for help during recovery
• An inability to resume normal activities during the recovery period
• Lack of support from loved ones
• Feeling pressured by loved ones to have undergone a procedure
• Unrealistic expectations for the procedure
• Swelling or slow healing
• Getting used to a new appearance

Most cases of post-surgical depression are minor and temporary. Prepare for your emotional health by eating healthy, guaranteeing the support of loved ones, and discussing any concerns with Dr. Brantner before your surgery. If you experience severe or extended depression after plastic surgery, contact a healthcare professional immediately.

Planning a Second Procedure

87% of plastic surgery patients are happy with their results. Of the other 13%, many patients feel that they don’t look better, just different. Patients dissatisfied with their appearance after plastic surgery should determine whether the problem is physical (unhappiness with the results of the procedure) or emotional (insecurity or anxiety). Dr. Brantner recommends waiting several months before undergoing any follow-up procedures. Waiting allows patients to fully heal and become more comfortable with their new appearance before jumping into another surgery.

Do you have questions about plastic surgery and emotional health? Call Jim Brantner MD, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to learn more about finding your best self, inside and out.

photo from FreeDigitalPhotos

How to Find the Right Surgeon

Feb 6, 2015 | Uncategorized

Plastic surgery requires a skilled hand, extensive medical knowledge, and years of experience. It also requires a trusted relationship between doctor and patient. Choosing a plastic surgeon should involve research, recommendations, and complete confidence in your doctor’s abilities, but many patients give little thought to their doctor’s qualifications and bedside manner. Guarantee a great experience and excellent results by using these 5 tips for choosing a plastic surgeon.

How to Pick a Plastic Surgeon

• Research your doctor’s qualifications. Every year thousands of men and women get botched plastic surgery, leading to disfiguration, health problems, and expensive “fix it” procedures. Always choose a plastic surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
• Know the difference between cosmetic and plastic surgery. Hundreds of doctors claim to be qualified surgeons, but there is a difference between cosmetic surgeons and plastic surgeons who also perform cosmetic surgery. Plastic surgeons must undergo highly specific training before becoming board certified, whereas cosmetic surgeons often “learn on the job” after completing residency in a different specialty.
• Ask plenty of questions. Before choosing a plastic surgeon, ask your doctor about his history, his recommendations for achieving your desired aesthetic, and any questions you may have about the procedure.
• Share a vision. Plastic surgery is highly personal journey, and each procedure differs from patient to patient. To ensure the best experience, develop clear communication with your doctor during your consultation. Listen carefully to his recommendations, clearly articulate your desired results, and agree on how to achieve your goals before booking a procedure. If you can’t agree, it may be time to search for another physician. Both you and your doctor want you to be satisfied with your results.
• Develop trust. When you pick a plastic surgeon, you’re not only choosing a doctor’s skill, but also the sense of security he brings to your surgical journey. After researching a physician’s qualifications, schedule a consultation. Make sure you feel comfortable discussing the procedure, recovery, and results with your plastic surgeon before booking cosmetic surgery.

Call Jim N. Brantner MD, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery to schedule a consultation, get information about cosmetic procedures, and learn about Dr. Brantner’s history and qualifications.