Are You a Good Candidate for Plastic Surgery? Here are 3 Ways to Know

If something is bothering you about your appearance, there’s likely a procedure that can improve how you look. However, not everyone is a good candidate for plastic surgery.

Patients who might not be good candidates for plastic surgery include those who have unrealistic expectations, those who suffer from underlying conditions that may impair healing, and those who suffer from body dysmorphia.

Below, we asked the team at Kenneth Sanders Facial Plastic Surgery in Shreveport, Louisiana, to share a few ways to determine whether you can benefit from enhancing your appearance through plastic surgery.

1. Determine if you’re in good health

Several factors can increase your risk for complications, including elevated blood sugar levels, poor blood flow, cigarette use, an unhealthy diet, excess weight, infections, and autoimmune conditions.

Certain medications can also slow recovery or cause complications, so when seeking medical advice, bring a list of all the supplements and drugs you take. For example, supplements that contain red clover, turmeric, or ginseng can thin out the blood, increasing your risk for bleeding after surgery.

2. Discuss your expectations with a specialist

One of the biggest indications that you’re a good candidate for plastic surgery is having realistic expectations.

Ask our plastic surgeon to show you before and after photos of procedures you're considering to get a better idea of how your body might change after the surgery. Also, keep in mind that individual results may vary.

3. Have time to invest in preparation and recovery

Not all surgical procedures involve lengthy recovery times, but you should have a crystal clear picture of the preparation and recovery processes before you undergo surgery.

If you’re a smoker, you may be asked to stop for at least two weeks before your surgery. Abstaining from alcohol is also sometimes recommended.

Following the surgery, you may need to take a few days, or even weeks, off from work and be ready to make some changes to your routine.

For example, you may need to sleep elevated, or you may need to change the way you shower for a short period to avoid getting water on the incision within the first 48 hours after the surgery. Recovery can take a while, and you must be prepared to invest time and be diligent about following the instructions of your plastic surgeon

Find out if you’re a good candidate for plastic surgery Undergoing a body modification can be scary and exciting at the same time, but we can help you determine whether you’re a good candidate for plastic surgery. To learn more, call 318-698-8711 or book an appointment online with Kenneth Sanders Facial Plastic Surgery today.

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Kenneth W. Sanders, M.D. 8711 Line Avenue Shreveport, LA 71106 318.698.8711