What would disqualify you from getting plastic surgery?
Plastic surgery is a popular option for individuals seeking to enhance their appearance or alleviate physical discomfort. Procedures such as breast reduction and rectus diastasis repair can reduce pain and improve bodily comfort. Body contouring surgeries, such as liposuction or breast augmentation, can help individuals achieve their desired aesthetic.
However, not everyone who desires plastic surgery is a suitable candidate. Plastic surgeons may decline to perform a procedure for various reasons, such as the patient’s risk factors for surgery, unrealistic expectations, or underlying health conditions. While plastic surgery can provide numerous benefits, it is crucial to ensure that it is a safe and appropriate option for each patient.
To determine if you are a suitable candidate for plastic surgery, it is advisable to schedule a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. During the consultation, the plastic surgeon will review your medical history, discuss your objectives for surgery, and inform you of any potential complications that may arise during or after the procedure. With their experience and expertise, a qualified plastic surgeon can provide a personalized assessment and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.
Reasons you could be disqualified for plastic surgery
Plastic surgery eligibility varies depending on the desired procedure. While minimally invasive procedures like mole removal or scar revision are generally safe for most individuals, invasive surgeries such as breast augmentation may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions.
Aside from the risk of surgical complications, there are other reasons why a plastic surgeon may decline to perform a procedure. Unrealistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery can also disqualify a patient.
Unhealthy lifestyle habits such as smoking, drug use, or having a high body mass index may also preclude a patient from having surgery. In preparation for plastic surgery, patients should quit smoking or using drugs and strive to achieve a healthy weight with a BMI of less than 30.
Here are five common reasons why a patient may not be eligible for plastic surgery: unrealistic expectations, certain medical conditions, smoking or drug use, obesity, and an unhealthy lifestyle.
Unrealistic expectations
Plastic surgery can be a valuable option for individuals seeking to improve their appearance and boost their self-confidence. Procedures such as breast augmentation, liposuction, and rhinoplasty can help individuals achieve their desired body goals.
However, having unrealistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery can disqualify a patient from undergoing the procedure. It is essential to understand that plastic surgery alone cannot reverse signs of aging or address underlying psychological issues related to body image.
If a patient is seeking plastic surgery as a quick fix for deeper emotional or psychological issues, it may not be the right time to proceed with the surgery. In such cases, plastic surgeons may recommend that patients address their concerns with a mental health professional before considering plastic surgery.
Underlying health conditions
Like all surgeries, plastic surgery carries inherent risks, especially when anesthesia is involved. Certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure or a BMI over 30, can increase the risk of complications such as infection, heart attack, or stroke after surgery.
If you are currently pregnant, a plastic surgeon is unlikely to perform any surgery until at least six months after delivery. Surgery during pregnancy can pose risks to both the mother and the developing fetus, including premature delivery and miscarriage. As a result, it is recommended to postpone elective surgery until after pregnancy and recovery.
Previous surgical complications
Individuals who have experienced surgical complications in the past, such as wound infections, excessive bleeding, or blood clots, are at an increased risk of experiencing complications again, regardless of the type of surgery.
Since plastic surgery is usually an elective procedure, the plastic surgeon may determine that the potential risks of complications outweigh the benefits for individuals with a high risk of surgical complications. In such cases, the surgeon may decline to perform the surgery.
Wanting surgery for the wrong reasons
Plastic surgery should not be considered a weight-loss method, even though some procedures can remove fat from the body. If you are relying solely on plastic surgery instead of a healthy lifestyle to reduce weight, your plastic surgeon may be hesitant to perform the procedure.
Adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine should be the primary approach to reduce excess body fat. While plastic surgery can help remove stubborn fat from areas resistant to diet and exercise, it should only be considered as a last resort. Failure to prioritize a healthy lifestyle before undergoing plastic surgery can lead to unsatisfactory results over time.
For instance, gaining weight after a breast reduction, tummy tuck, or liposuction can cause unnatural or asymmetrical body contours. Therefore, plastic surgeons usually recommend achieving or getting close to your ideal weight before considering plastic surgery.
Surgery conflicts with your desire to have children
If you have plans to conceive in the future, it is essential to inform your plastic surgeon before scheduling surgery. Although planning for pregnancy does not necessarily prohibit you from undergoing plastic surgery, your surgeon may opt for specific techniques to prevent any complications during pregnancy or breastfeeding. For instance, during a breast augmentation, your surgeon may avoid operating through the nipple to avoid damaging it and affecting lactation.
Moreover, weight gain during pregnancy can affect the results of the surgery in the long run. If you are planning to become pregnant soon, your plastic surgeon may recommend waiting until after childbirth to perform some procedures, such as liposuction, breast augmentation, or reduction.
A plastic surgeon can help explain your options for surgery
Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can help you understand your surgical options and properly prepare for the procedure without any fear of disqualification. Adequate preparation will enable you to pursue your desired plastic surgery intervention at the right time and achieve your aesthetic goals.
FAQs
What is plastic surgery?
Plastic surgery is a medical specialty that involves reconstructing or repairing various parts of the body to enhance the appearance or restore function.
What are the different types of plastic surgery?
There are many types of plastic surgery procedures, including breast augmentation, rhinoplasty, facelift, liposuction, tummy tuck, and more.
What are the risks associated with plastic surgery?
Like any surgery, plastic surgery carries risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, nerve damage, and complications from anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will discuss the risks and potential complications associated with the procedure you are considering.
How long is the recovery period after plastic surgery?
The recovery time depends on the type of procedure performed. Some procedures have a short recovery time, while others may take weeks or months to heal fully. Your plastic surgeon will provide you with a detailed recovery plan tailored to your specific needs.
Is plastic surgery covered by insurance?
Most plastic surgery procedures are considered elective and not covered by insurance. However, some procedures may be covered if they are deemed medically necessary. It’s important to check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage options.
Conclusion
plastic surgery should not be viewed as a quick fix for weight loss or a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Adopting a healthy diet and exercise routine should always be prioritized before considering plastic surgery to reduce excess body fat.
It is essential to inform your plastic surgeon if you plan to conceive in the future, as certain procedures may impact pregnancy and breastfeeding. Consulting with a board-certified plastic surgeon can provide valuable insight into surgical options and help you prepare adequately for the procedure to achieve your desired aesthetic goals.