Are you looking for a change in your body? A new shape or a new size? Perhaps, a skin treatment or something to help your body and face look younger? If so, there are a variety of surgical and non-surgical cosmetic procedures that can change the way you look and feel. In 2009, cosmetic surgeons across the United States performed more than 10 million different procedures, according to statistics from the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), and that number is expected to skyrocket by 2015.

Cosmetic surgery can be as simple as a Botox injection over the lunch hour or as extensive as a “mommy makeover” to reshape your breasts, belly, thighs, face and more. Some procedures only take a few minutes and involve very little recovery time; some take several hours and involve a longer recovery period. Cosmetic surgery can focus on your face, your ankles, your neck, your stomach – you name it. It can make body parts larger or smaller.

If you are considering having some sort of cosmetic surgical procedure, the following checklist will help you determine if you’re a good candidate:
-Have you done your research? Good candidates for any cosmetic surgery have a good understanding of the procedure itself as well as any pre- or post-surgery expectations. Likewise, research will help you understand potential costs, risks, options and more.

-Have you already tried to change your body through diet and exercise? The best candidates for cosmetic surgery are often people who live a relatively healthy lifestyle and have struggled to change or shape certain areas through exercise or diet in the past.

-Have you set some money aside for cosmetic surgery? Health insurance covers some procedures (breast reduction to help with severe back pain in certain instances, for example), but most procedures are out of pocket. In addition, cosmetic surgery procedures vary in price depending on the area and extent of the surgery.

-Have you talked to a cosmetic surgeon? You should make sure the surgeon you are considering has strong experience in your particular surgery and that he or she also has impressive credentials: education, training, job experience, qualified staff as well as a personality and style you are comfortable with.

-Have you had all of your questions answered? Talk to cosmetic surgeons and friends or others who have had cosmetic procedures performed to get all of your questions answered ahead of time. The more you know, the more you can prepare and enjoy the results of your procedure.

Cosmetic surgery can change your body, your mindset, your outlook, your entire life. Doing some research and studying your options can lead you to the best cosmetic surgeon and the best options for you and your body.
Always be sure to do your homework so you’re sure to be trusting a plastic surgeon with proper training and experience. It’s always a good idea to consult only with plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. There are many certifications but American Board Certified Plastic Surgeons are usually the most trusted.

Author Bio: Dr. Leo Lapuerta is a board certified Houston plastic surgeon and the founder of the Plastic Surgery Institute of Southeast Texas. To learn more about cosmetic surgery procedures, look through actual patient photo galleries and watch video testimonials visit www.lookyounger.net.

Category: Medical Business
Keywords: cosmetic surgery, plastic surgery, cosmetic surgeon, plastic surgeon, houston, texas