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Plastic Surgery Patient Mistakes

Posted in Plastic Surgery

diagram of doctor and nurse helping patient

You’ve read horror stories about plastic surgery gone wrong. There’s even a show dedicated to it. But in those instances, it’s the surgeon who is erroneous. What happens when the patient is the one at fault?

Plastic Surgery Patient Responsibilities

As the patient, it is important to take care of yourself both before and after plastic surgery. Some things to keep in mind are:

  • Be transparent

Make sure to provide the surgeon performing your plastic surgery with a list medications you are taking, including vitamins and any and all supplements to avoid plastic surgery gone wrong. Patients often assume supplements such as fish oil, ginseng or gingko biloba will not affect the procedure, but it’s important your doctor is aware of every type of medicine in your body to prevent unhealthy interactions with anesthesia. If you take aspirin regularly, let your doctor know, because doing so affects platelet formation and causes your blood to thin and not clot properly.

  • Avoid the neighborhood spa

You should only have plastic surgery performed by a board certified plastic surgeon. It’s hard not to fall into the trap of a medical spa: it’s convenient, serene, and everything about it is alluring and draws you in. Medical spas may offer bargain prices, but as the old adage says, “You get what you pay for.” Shop around in Houston, not just for the lowest price but for a board certified surgeon at a facility with an experienced, highly-trained staff.

  • Check the credentials

Take time to verify the credentials of your plastic surgeon. Board certified plastic surgeons in Houston, TX have the training and experience to answer all of your questions as well as accommodate any special requests involving your procedure.

  • Follow the rules

Depending on the type of surgery you receive, your doctor will provide you with a list of instructions for after plastic surgery care. These instructions may include directions for medication, a list of activities to avoid, and suggestions to curb or eliminate habits such as smoking. (Smoking cigarettes decreases the oxygen levels in your blood, which can result in delayed healing of wounds.)

Taking control of your surgery outcome requires common sense, communication with your surgeon and cooperation after the procedure. For more advice on avoiding plastic surgery patient mistakes, schedule a consultation with Dr. Livingston in Houston.