Plastic surgery might have been hurt by the recession, but it still draws a sizable following of people hoping to improve their appearance.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that some major cosmetic surgery procedures, such as breast augmentation and liposuction, declined between 2007 and 2008 - the most recent figures available. But minimally invasive procedures grew in popularity during the same period. That includes treatments with Botox, laser skin resurfacing, and laser treatment of veins in the legs.
Dr. Michael D. Cohen of Towson's Cosmetic Surgery Center of Maryland recently answered questions about choosing the right cosmetic surgeon. Above all, he says, do your research before agreeing to a procedure.
Question: What's the first thing one should do when choosing a plastic surgeon?
Answer: Make sure your plastic surgeon is ... certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. You would want to ask your plastic surgeon what do they specialize in and "Have you done these procedures often?" You would want to ask for before-and-after photos. You would want to ask for some patient references and testimonials, to get a sense of how comfortable your plastic surgeon is with his or her results.
Q: Who are some of the best candidates for plastic surgery?
A: You want people to have reasonable expectations. You want to agree and confirm that the problem or the concern of theirs is real and something that is fixable. You want to look out for people whose expectations are unreal or [who are] seeking out plastic surgery to correct other social or emotional issues. Of course everybody knows of celebrities that have had extreme plastic surgery. As a responsible plastic surgeon, you really want to resist the temptation to get involved with treating patients who have had multiple procedures performed on the same area and are never satisfied.
Q: How many procedures is too many?
A: There is no fixed number. It varies by patient. Some people will take the opportunity to combine a few procedures together. What it does is that it actually allows the recovery to be lumped into one. It's cost effective because they're only undergoing one anesthetic. And they're sort of creating more improvement in more areas to make them happier. But most people usually ask about one or two procedures, and then occasionally people ask for a little bit more; but if they're good candidates, it's not unreasonable.
SOURCE
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Saturday, February 6, 2010
Cosmetic Surgery Cost Declines in 2009
The US may have experienced a 12% decrease in the number of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic treatments, but the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons have a different story to tell. They found the UK experienced a 5% increase in demand from 2007 to 2008, and a 9% increase from 2008 to 2009.
Thanks to an 8.7% increase over the previous year, the UK plastic surgery industry reached a total market value of GBP536 million by the end of 2008. The reason for this is believed to be the addition of a number of new products and services that offer effective results with shorter recovery periods. A portion of the growth is also attributed to advancements in technology, which have improved a number of the current procedures being offered.
Financing options have also been attributed with a significant amount of the growth simply because it has made a number of larger procedures more affordable. Men have also been opting to have cosmetic treatments. In fact, this is currently the fastest growing demographic. Overall, procedures vary greatly in price, yet they have generally decreased slightly, which is a relief after several years of increases.
Breast enlargements may have cost an average of GBP4,350 in 2008, but in 2009, quoted prices ranged from GBP3,295 to GBP4,850, with GBP3,348 being an average. Patients do need to exercise caution when comparing the quotes offered by various clinics, however.
Many times, quotes only include two follow up care sessions and charge additional fees for the initial consultation. Other clinics include the initial consultation and a lifetime of follow up care appointments in their quotes. Also, the costs of an overnight stay in the hospital may or may not be included in the initial quote.
Rhytidectomies or facelift surgeries declined in a similar fashion in the UK. What once cost an estimated GBP6,750 in 2008 now falls around the GBP6,012 for the average facelift procedure. Patients will want to shop around and consider their choices carefully before making a final decision, however. Quoted prices did vary from GBP4,000 to GBP8,500, depending on the clinic chosen and the type of repairs necessary to achieve the desired results.
The average liposuction treatment was worth approximately GBP3,000 in 2008. In 2009, however, the same treatment averaged GBP2,881 and ranged anywhere from GBP2,000 to GBP5,150, depending on the clinic. Patients will find the actual costs for liposuction treatments will depend on numerous factors including how many areas require treatment, what the plastic surgery clinic defines as 'one area, and the patient's gender. Men will find they'll pay more for liposuction than women because their fat cells are harder and more fibrous, which makes them more difficult to remove.
Source
Thanks to an 8.7% increase over the previous year, the UK plastic surgery industry reached a total market value of GBP536 million by the end of 2008. The reason for this is believed to be the addition of a number of new products and services that offer effective results with shorter recovery periods. A portion of the growth is also attributed to advancements in technology, which have improved a number of the current procedures being offered.
Financing options have also been attributed with a significant amount of the growth simply because it has made a number of larger procedures more affordable. Men have also been opting to have cosmetic treatments. In fact, this is currently the fastest growing demographic. Overall, procedures vary greatly in price, yet they have generally decreased slightly, which is a relief after several years of increases.
Breast enlargements may have cost an average of GBP4,350 in 2008, but in 2009, quoted prices ranged from GBP3,295 to GBP4,850, with GBP3,348 being an average. Patients do need to exercise caution when comparing the quotes offered by various clinics, however.
Many times, quotes only include two follow up care sessions and charge additional fees for the initial consultation. Other clinics include the initial consultation and a lifetime of follow up care appointments in their quotes. Also, the costs of an overnight stay in the hospital may or may not be included in the initial quote.
Rhytidectomies or facelift surgeries declined in a similar fashion in the UK. What once cost an estimated GBP6,750 in 2008 now falls around the GBP6,012 for the average facelift procedure. Patients will want to shop around and consider their choices carefully before making a final decision, however. Quoted prices did vary from GBP4,000 to GBP8,500, depending on the clinic chosen and the type of repairs necessary to achieve the desired results.
The average liposuction treatment was worth approximately GBP3,000 in 2008. In 2009, however, the same treatment averaged GBP2,881 and ranged anywhere from GBP2,000 to GBP5,150, depending on the clinic. Patients will find the actual costs for liposuction treatments will depend on numerous factors including how many areas require treatment, what the plastic surgery clinic defines as 'one area, and the patient's gender. Men will find they'll pay more for liposuction than women because their fat cells are harder and more fibrous, which makes them more difficult to remove.
Source
Monday, January 25, 2010
Cosmetic Surgery Website Regulated by BAAPS
GoodSurgeonGuide.co.uk, regulated by BAAPS (British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons) was launched in September 2009 and is the first website of its kind. The site is the UK's only Cosmetic Surgery review website and should be the first port of call for anyone considering cosmetic surgery, aesthetic treatments or cosmetic dentistry. The site can also play an important role for surgeons and treatment providers.
The website was created by Christiana Clogg and good friend, Jennie Bassett. Both women had considered cosmetic surgery in the past and were overwhelmed by the amount of choice but the lack of guidance. The decision to undergo surgery was not an easy one, yet finding reviews and experiences from fellow cosmetic surgery patients was becoming the hardest part. It became clear that there needed to be a site that was honest, informative and completely independent from any other, a simple yet totally effective guide for all those that were considering surgery.
Getting listed on GoodSurgeonGuide.co.uk is completely free and, by doing so, clinics, cosmetic surgeons, cosmetic dentists and aesthetic treatment providers can get their own profile, complete with contact details, and information about qualifications and the procedures they offer. The profile has a review and ratings section, which can be used by people who have gone to them for procedures in the past; this will help raise the profile of the professional and show that they are reputable and respected.
Since the launch the site has been a huge success. With over 10,000 new visitors a month, the ladies are well on their way to making the site the first port of call when researching cosmetic surgery.
The website was created by Christiana Clogg and good friend, Jennie Bassett. Both women had considered cosmetic surgery in the past and were overwhelmed by the amount of choice but the lack of guidance. The decision to undergo surgery was not an easy one, yet finding reviews and experiences from fellow cosmetic surgery patients was becoming the hardest part. It became clear that there needed to be a site that was honest, informative and completely independent from any other, a simple yet totally effective guide for all those that were considering surgery.
Getting listed on GoodSurgeonGuide.co.uk is completely free and, by doing so, clinics, cosmetic surgeons, cosmetic dentists and aesthetic treatment providers can get their own profile, complete with contact details, and information about qualifications and the procedures they offer. The profile has a review and ratings section, which can be used by people who have gone to them for procedures in the past; this will help raise the profile of the professional and show that they are reputable and respected.
Since the launch the site has been a huge success. With over 10,000 new visitors a month, the ladies are well on their way to making the site the first port of call when researching cosmetic surgery.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Is Cost Stopping You to Have a Cosmetic Surgery?
“For every person who has undergone a cosmetic procedure, there are at least two more who would like to.” So says J.P. Faber, the editor of a magazine about to be launched called “New You.” With its clearly stated mission to promote cosmetic surgery and encourage people who are considering it to “take action tomorrow,” it’s wise to look at the new publication by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgeons with a critical eye.
Still, it’s probably safe to say that there are more people considering surgery than there are people who actually take the plunge. According to J.P. Faber, one of the leading obstacles is the high cost.
I’m not a physician and therefore can’t offer medical advice to anyone considering surgery. But I do have several years of experience writing about elective procedures, including dozens and dozens of patient and surgeon interviews. From that standpoint, I truly enjoy sharing what I’ve learned along the way.
About the cost of cosmetic surgery: There’s no denying that the price tag can be eye-popping. In fact, when you add up the various charges—surgeon, facility, anesthesiologist, meds and more—the procedure you’re considering may well cost more than you think.
Don’t stop at the direct costs, though. The bottom line will include some outlays associated with preparation. You’ll need a physical and some routine blood work at minimum. If your chosen surgeon is not close to home, you may be paying transportation and lodging bills. For your recovery period, you might need special food, garments or other purchases to ensure your comfort.
Given all these costs, some people understandably look for plastic surgery deals. Don’t be one of them. The Internet is filled with stories of people who are sorry they chose an under-qualified provider to save money. For a surgeon who’s board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, an accredited surgical facility with state-of-the-art equipment and a physician-anesthesiologist, you can expect to pay a good sum of money. But your safety and satisfaction are worth it.
Also think hard before flying to another country.
For one thing, you may not be saving as much as you think you are if you add up all the costs related to traveling. More importantly, if you’re one of the small percentage of patients with a problem, you won’t want to be in an unfamiliar setting far from home.
Financing plastic surgery is a viable option for some people, but again you should think this through. Consider whether you’ll really feel ok about paying for a procedure long after the results have settled in.
If you’re thinking about rhinoplasty to fix a nose hump you’ve hated for years, you’ve done your homework and feel confident in your choice of surgeon, you’re willing to pay $5000 - $10,000 (depending largely on your location) and you’ve saved at least part of the money, maybe financing the rest of the cost is the way to go. If you can look yourself in the mirror and know that a year or five years down the road you will still be thrilled with your new look and happy you moved forward, then look into financing.
If you don’t honestly feel this strongly about surgery, try setting a goal to save more of the cost of the procedure before you make the final decision. If you follow through, that might be an indication that you’re ready to take on surgery and an extended payment commitment. If not, well, you might want to rethink your priorities.
Want to bet money on how soon J.P. Faber’s “New You” magazine will feature an article on how easy it is to finance plastic surgery, then? I didn’t think so!
Source : empowher
Still, it’s probably safe to say that there are more people considering surgery than there are people who actually take the plunge. According to J.P. Faber, one of the leading obstacles is the high cost.
I’m not a physician and therefore can’t offer medical advice to anyone considering surgery. But I do have several years of experience writing about elective procedures, including dozens and dozens of patient and surgeon interviews. From that standpoint, I truly enjoy sharing what I’ve learned along the way.
About the cost of cosmetic surgery: There’s no denying that the price tag can be eye-popping. In fact, when you add up the various charges—surgeon, facility, anesthesiologist, meds and more—the procedure you’re considering may well cost more than you think.
Don’t stop at the direct costs, though. The bottom line will include some outlays associated with preparation. You’ll need a physical and some routine blood work at minimum. If your chosen surgeon is not close to home, you may be paying transportation and lodging bills. For your recovery period, you might need special food, garments or other purchases to ensure your comfort.
Given all these costs, some people understandably look for plastic surgery deals. Don’t be one of them. The Internet is filled with stories of people who are sorry they chose an under-qualified provider to save money. For a surgeon who’s board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, an accredited surgical facility with state-of-the-art equipment and a physician-anesthesiologist, you can expect to pay a good sum of money. But your safety and satisfaction are worth it.
Also think hard before flying to another country.
For one thing, you may not be saving as much as you think you are if you add up all the costs related to traveling. More importantly, if you’re one of the small percentage of patients with a problem, you won’t want to be in an unfamiliar setting far from home.
Financing plastic surgery is a viable option for some people, but again you should think this through. Consider whether you’ll really feel ok about paying for a procedure long after the results have settled in.
If you’re thinking about rhinoplasty to fix a nose hump you’ve hated for years, you’ve done your homework and feel confident in your choice of surgeon, you’re willing to pay $5000 - $10,000 (depending largely on your location) and you’ve saved at least part of the money, maybe financing the rest of the cost is the way to go. If you can look yourself in the mirror and know that a year or five years down the road you will still be thrilled with your new look and happy you moved forward, then look into financing.
If you don’t honestly feel this strongly about surgery, try setting a goal to save more of the cost of the procedure before you make the final decision. If you follow through, that might be an indication that you’re ready to take on surgery and an extended payment commitment. If not, well, you might want to rethink your priorities.
Want to bet money on how soon J.P. Faber’s “New You” magazine will feature an article on how easy it is to finance plastic surgery, then? I didn’t think so!
Source : empowher
Sunday, December 20, 2009
Senate Democrats Would no longer tax Cosmetic Surgeries
Your fears of a 5 percent tariff on butt lifts, rhinoplasty, and injectables like Botox and Restylane are over! Senate Democrats have dropped the so-called "Botax," likely after major uproar from the well-moneyed cosmetic surgery industry, which was supposed to raise $5 billion. But don't think Dems have entirely thrown out the idea of taxing America's addiction to aesthetic improvements: The cast of Jersey Shore is about to see their tanning experience get hit with a hike.
In place of Botax is a 10 percent tax on indoor tanning. Or, as the Senate's bill refers to it, the tax will be "intended for the irradiation of an individual by ultraviolet radiation, with wavelengths in air between 200 and 400 nanometers, to induce skin tanning." Which, as far as we're concerned, is a tax on WHITE PEOPLE!
Looks like spray-ons it will be.
SOURCE
In place of Botax is a 10 percent tax on indoor tanning. Or, as the Senate's bill refers to it, the tax will be "intended for the irradiation of an individual by ultraviolet radiation, with wavelengths in air between 200 and 400 nanometers, to induce skin tanning." Which, as far as we're concerned, is a tax on WHITE PEOPLE!
Looks like spray-ons it will be.
SOURCE
Saturday, December 12, 2009
Cosmetic Surgery Tax
If you have ever considered getting cosmetic surgery, including botox, you may soon be paying an extra 5% percent tax.
It's a proposal in the new health reform bill currently being debated in congress.
Many cosmetic surgeons across the country are outraged.
They say it unfairly targets women and could lead to "black market” surgery and treatments if the tax pushes costs up.
Dr. Sylvan Bartlett says, “Where do you draw the line? Dentists for veneers? Beauty shops? Kids braces? Are they going to start taxing you for that?”
SOURCE
It's a proposal in the new health reform bill currently being debated in congress.
Many cosmetic surgeons across the country are outraged.
They say it unfairly targets women and could lead to "black market” surgery and treatments if the tax pushes costs up.
Dr. Sylvan Bartlett says, “Where do you draw the line? Dentists for veneers? Beauty shops? Kids braces? Are they going to start taxing you for that?”
SOURCE
Sunday, December 6, 2009
Know your surgeon
THE recent death of former Miss Argentina Solange Magnano after elective buttocks surgery brings to surface the question of safety in cosmetic surgery again.
There have been many such misadventures worldwide but they have failed to deter thousands of Malaysians from doing what it takes for beauty.
One such person is Christina Chan.
Chan, a 38-year-old consultant, recently went for thigh liposuction. She was willing to go through with it even though her sister almost died from the same procedure a few years ago.
"Based on friends' recommendations, my younger sister chose to undergo liposuction at a private clinic in Klang. It turned out to be a scary experience for our family.
"Hours after the procedure, my sister started vomiting. The next morning, we found her lying unconscious in the bathroom. When she regained her consciousness, she could hardly walk as her legs were badly bruised.
"She has since recovered, but the procedure could have killed her."
Although Chan watched her sister go through the ordeal, it did not deter her.
"Some people may think it's crazy to take the risk but I needed the surgery for practical reasons.
"I live in the United States and it's difficult to shop for clothes, especially jeans."
Chan did some background check on the surgeon first.
"I turned to the Internet for information. I believe if proper research and consultation is done prior to cosmetic procedures, there is not much to worry about."
Although an increasing number of Malaysians go for cosmetic procedures, there remains a low level of awareness about safe practices. Laws and regulations are also in place to ensure safety, but there is not enough enforcement.
"I've seen people as young as 18 and as old as 60 seeking double eyelids, eye bag removal, nose enhancement, facelift, breast augmentation, liposuction and tummy tucks," says Dr Tan Geok Puan, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon at a private hospital in Sunway.
"More people are aware of procedures available these days. Many are doing it to improve their self-esteem and to project a better image for work and promotions.
"There are also many non-surgical treatments that are popular, like Botox, fillers and laser skin rejuvenation procedures."
Dr Tan says cosmetic surgery is safe as long as it is carried out by a qualified surgeon in a credible hospital.
"There are associated risks and complications in any surgery. What is important is to make sure the patient is fit for surgery."
But patients, Dr Tan says, should not expect miracles.
"We have the patient's features and tissues to deal with and can enhance what is presented to us.
"But patients with unrealistic expectations should not undergo surgery because they will never be happy.
"Patients may refer to the Malaysian Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons for consultation."
Consultant plastic surgeon Dr Yap Lok Huei says it is important for patients considering cosmetic surgery to research their options carefully.
"Regulatory enforcement tends to lag behind development of techniques in cosmetic surgeries and non-surgical treatments."
Dr Yap is keen to remind his patients that in any trade, there are always some less ethical individuals who are out to make a quick profit. This, sadly, is also true of cosmetic treatments and cosmetic surgery, he says.
"There are cases where the patients do not even ask to see their surgeon before their surgery.
"There have also been reports of some patients finding out just before the surgery that their surgeon is not registered to practise in Malaysia.
"However, at that stage, many patients feel they might as well go through with it due to embarrassment. Thus, they inadvertently take part in an illegal enterprise."
Dr Yap says some patients find out that their surgeon is not qualified only after complications have occurred.
"I suggest that the surgeon assess his patient to decide on the correct treatment and that the patient be given treatment options and time to ponder on the surgery.
"The fact that these patients meet their surgeon only on the day of the operation is unacceptable."
In situations like these, Dr Yap says, it is likely that a "sales consultant" would have seen the patient.
"Such consultants may not have the necessary medical expertise to deal with subtle yet important details that may require attention."
He feels that managing the risks of cosmetic surgery should be a shared responsibility between patient and surgeon.
"The patient should ensure that the doctor is a qualified specialist. Information on doctors and their expertise and training is much more easily available online these days.
"The consultation process should tell you whether the procedure is suitable and whether it would produce the results you want.
"The surgeon should also give you an honest appraisal of the likelihood of success and the cost, not just in terms of fees but also the healing and down time."
Dr Yap is concerned that non-specialist doctors are increasingly carrying out invasive cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction.
"Patients do not seem to be aware that they are exposing themselves to unnecessary risks by opting to go with such doctors.
"Botched jobs that are fatal happen due to technical errors and some due to the lack of safety equipment. These deaths could have been prevented."
So, how does one go about making sure safety can be guaranteed?
"There are no guarantees with any cosmetic surgery as mistakes can occur even in the best of hands. The secret is in minimising the risks of surgery.
"We can do this by selecting experienced surgeons who have a good reputation and accredited medical centres that are equipped with trained medical staff and equipment to deal with medical emergencies," says Dr Yap.
But how do you tell if you are dealing with a competent surgeon?
"I think recommendations from one of your surgeon's patients can be a positive factor. Ask your surgeon about his or her experience in the field you are interested in.
"Does your surgeon have before and after pictures of patients who underwent similar surgery?
"Are they recognised by other surgeons for their skills and experience?"
Dr Yap says it is important for patients to establish trust and rapport with their surgeons.
"Your surgeon should be someone who cares for you. If you feel you can't trust them, chances are you have the wrong person."
Dr Yap stresses, however, that patients should not be afraid of cosmetic surgery or treatments.
"The fact that there are many happy patients is testament that cosmetic surgery and treatments can be carried out successfully. However, it needs to be well-researched and well-planned.
"If the risks are managed properly, cosmetic surgery can be satisfying for both patient and surgeon, and ultimately produce the desired changes in a patient's life."
SOURCE
There have been many such misadventures worldwide but they have failed to deter thousands of Malaysians from doing what it takes for beauty.
One such person is Christina Chan.
Chan, a 38-year-old consultant, recently went for thigh liposuction. She was willing to go through with it even though her sister almost died from the same procedure a few years ago.
"Based on friends' recommendations, my younger sister chose to undergo liposuction at a private clinic in Klang. It turned out to be a scary experience for our family.
"Hours after the procedure, my sister started vomiting. The next morning, we found her lying unconscious in the bathroom. When she regained her consciousness, she could hardly walk as her legs were badly bruised.
"She has since recovered, but the procedure could have killed her."
Although Chan watched her sister go through the ordeal, it did not deter her.
"Some people may think it's crazy to take the risk but I needed the surgery for practical reasons.
"I live in the United States and it's difficult to shop for clothes, especially jeans."
Chan did some background check on the surgeon first.
"I turned to the Internet for information. I believe if proper research and consultation is done prior to cosmetic procedures, there is not much to worry about."
Although an increasing number of Malaysians go for cosmetic procedures, there remains a low level of awareness about safe practices. Laws and regulations are also in place to ensure safety, but there is not enough enforcement.
"I've seen people as young as 18 and as old as 60 seeking double eyelids, eye bag removal, nose enhancement, facelift, breast augmentation, liposuction and tummy tucks," says Dr Tan Geok Puan, a consultant plastic and reconstructive surgeon at a private hospital in Sunway.
"More people are aware of procedures available these days. Many are doing it to improve their self-esteem and to project a better image for work and promotions.
"There are also many non-surgical treatments that are popular, like Botox, fillers and laser skin rejuvenation procedures."
Dr Tan says cosmetic surgery is safe as long as it is carried out by a qualified surgeon in a credible hospital.
"There are associated risks and complications in any surgery. What is important is to make sure the patient is fit for surgery."
But patients, Dr Tan says, should not expect miracles.
"We have the patient's features and tissues to deal with and can enhance what is presented to us.
"But patients with unrealistic expectations should not undergo surgery because they will never be happy.
"Patients may refer to the Malaysian Association of Plastic, Aesthetic and Craniomaxillofacial Surgeons for consultation."
Consultant plastic surgeon Dr Yap Lok Huei says it is important for patients considering cosmetic surgery to research their options carefully.
"Regulatory enforcement tends to lag behind development of techniques in cosmetic surgeries and non-surgical treatments."
Dr Yap is keen to remind his patients that in any trade, there are always some less ethical individuals who are out to make a quick profit. This, sadly, is also true of cosmetic treatments and cosmetic surgery, he says.
"There are cases where the patients do not even ask to see their surgeon before their surgery.
"There have also been reports of some patients finding out just before the surgery that their surgeon is not registered to practise in Malaysia.
"However, at that stage, many patients feel they might as well go through with it due to embarrassment. Thus, they inadvertently take part in an illegal enterprise."
Dr Yap says some patients find out that their surgeon is not qualified only after complications have occurred.
"I suggest that the surgeon assess his patient to decide on the correct treatment and that the patient be given treatment options and time to ponder on the surgery.
"The fact that these patients meet their surgeon only on the day of the operation is unacceptable."
In situations like these, Dr Yap says, it is likely that a "sales consultant" would have seen the patient.
"Such consultants may not have the necessary medical expertise to deal with subtle yet important details that may require attention."
He feels that managing the risks of cosmetic surgery should be a shared responsibility between patient and surgeon.
"The patient should ensure that the doctor is a qualified specialist. Information on doctors and their expertise and training is much more easily available online these days.
"The consultation process should tell you whether the procedure is suitable and whether it would produce the results you want.
"The surgeon should also give you an honest appraisal of the likelihood of success and the cost, not just in terms of fees but also the healing and down time."
Dr Yap is concerned that non-specialist doctors are increasingly carrying out invasive cosmetic procedures, such as liposuction.
"Patients do not seem to be aware that they are exposing themselves to unnecessary risks by opting to go with such doctors.
"Botched jobs that are fatal happen due to technical errors and some due to the lack of safety equipment. These deaths could have been prevented."
So, how does one go about making sure safety can be guaranteed?
"There are no guarantees with any cosmetic surgery as mistakes can occur even in the best of hands. The secret is in minimising the risks of surgery.
"We can do this by selecting experienced surgeons who have a good reputation and accredited medical centres that are equipped with trained medical staff and equipment to deal with medical emergencies," says Dr Yap.
But how do you tell if you are dealing with a competent surgeon?
"I think recommendations from one of your surgeon's patients can be a positive factor. Ask your surgeon about his or her experience in the field you are interested in.
"Does your surgeon have before and after pictures of patients who underwent similar surgery?
"Are they recognised by other surgeons for their skills and experience?"
Dr Yap says it is important for patients to establish trust and rapport with their surgeons.
"Your surgeon should be someone who cares for you. If you feel you can't trust them, chances are you have the wrong person."
Dr Yap stresses, however, that patients should not be afraid of cosmetic surgery or treatments.
"The fact that there are many happy patients is testament that cosmetic surgery and treatments can be carried out successfully. However, it needs to be well-researched and well-planned.
"If the risks are managed properly, cosmetic surgery can be satisfying for both patient and surgeon, and ultimately produce the desired changes in a patient's life."
SOURCE
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