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Last month Dr. Michael Vennemeyer, board certified Southlake plastic surgeon and author of the book “Plastic Surgery Myths Dispelled: A Consumer’s Guide,” shared some of the latest research supporting that plastic surgery may positively affect how you feel. Married to a psychiatrist, he is especially focused on helping patients find happiness. But, can everyone get mood-boosting, self-esteem-enhancing results? This month he reveals the three things you must have to get the maximum positive impact from plastic surgery.
Q: What is the first essential to success with plastic surgery?
A: First, your goals have to be something that plastic surgery can achieve. A common and reasonable goal is when you have extra tummy skin after pregnancy, and a flatter abdomen will help you feel comfortable in a bikini again. Another example is when you feel like the bags under your eyes make you look tired, and you want to look refreshed. Most of the patients that walk into my office fit into this category.
Q: What are some examples of wrong reasons to seek plastic surgery?
A: If you are getting a procedure only to make someone else happy or because you think looking better may save a relationship, you should think twice. People that get plastic surgery solely for these reasons have a much lower chance of being happy at end of the day. Don’t get me wrong, it’s great when your significant other is supportive, and research does show that feeling better about yourself can improve your relationships. The key is doing it for yourself, first.
Q: What is the second essential to success?
A: The second essential is having the right procedure. There are a lot of new lasers and machines out there today, many of which over promise and under deliver. It can be really confusing to prospective patients. A good plastic surgeon will match up the right procedure with your goals, taking into account your desired result, budget and available recovery time. If your plastic surgeon does not understand your goals, you may not get what you want at the end of the day. If you don’t feel understood, find another plastic surgeon.
Q: What are the common pitfalls you see with choosing the right procedure?
A: Many people simply want the least invasive approach —this does not always get you the result you want. I have seen a lot of patients go for non-invasive fat melting or skin tightening procedures, only to end up disappointed after a series of treatments with minimal to no change. Subpar results leave you unsatisfied and feeling like you wasted your money. In most cases, liposuction or tummy tuck results blow away what you can get from the non-invasive technologies that exist these days. Cost is another factor that often leads people to choose the wrong procedure or surgeon. The cheapest is not usually the best. Instead, focus on the results you want. Choose a plastic surgeon and procedure likely to get that result for you. At the end of the day, the series of cheaper-up-front treatments or an unqualified provider can end up costing you a lot more.
Q: What is the third essential to a good plastic surgery outcome?
A: The third essential is being a good candidate. This means being healthy and having enough time set aside to recover properly. It is very important to be honest with your plastic surgeon about any health issues, medications or smoking history. Also, take the recommended time to recover and heal properly to avoid compromising your results. Healing uneventfully has a tremendous impact on your result and overall happiness.
Ever wonder what a plastic surgeon sees when they look around the room? Attractiveness is only subjective to a point. Next month’s article will help you understand the science of looking hot and learn tips that can help you look your best without surgery.
