Many potential patients compare possible results to other people's outcomes. Unfortunately that is not always the best method to decide on procedures. As an example I have many women wishing to have the same "cup size" as their friend. That will only happen if the two people are exactly the same chest circumference with the same shape, trunk length, body... read more »

Safety is the most important factor in medicine and surgery, especially when elective procedures are involved. When choosing a cosmetic surgeon make sure that he/she is board certified in plastic surgery and has admitting privileges at a local hospital, even though the surgery may be planned in a private operating room suite. The reason for this is that hospitals do... read more »

I am not referring to financial cost (which are of course is important); but rather to the personal price that everyone pays in the process of recovery. Aside from subjecting oneself to the surgery, the post op course is an experience one cannot escape. In consultation I try to delineate as best as possible the aftermath which is usually more... read more »

Aesthetic (cosmetic) procedures are very rewarding to the person who undergoes the transformation. This satisfaction occurs only if the individual understands that the process is personal and changes only his/her attitude about themself. Friends/family/associates do not see us in the same light as we see ourselves; and that is a good thing! The changes we wish for ourselves are not... read more »

As a plastic surgeon my duty to my patient is to advise on the concern that this person has; and not diverge on tangential or unrelated areas that I may see as needing improvement. I think it is unethical, for example, to mention rhinoplasty (nose job) when the person is being seen for liposuction, unless the person brings up the... read more »

Just a friendly reminder and warning so that no one is disappointed. Bathing suite season will soon be upon us here in the NE, and like other seasons (holidays, Christmas, etc.) we need to plan. The time to undergo any treatment must take into account the recovery time as well. To look good in June/July one must consider having the... read more »

The primary goal of plastic surgery is to achieve a specific improvement with safety in mind. In cosmetic surgery that objective does not change. Plastic surgeons assess the patients' goals in regard to realistic expectations. In a consultation the next step is to give patients an honest, open understanding of the risks and post operative consequences of the procedures needed... read more »

Be informed. Not just via internet sites, friends, magazine articles and TV shows. If you really want the best and honest information about a cosmetic procedure, especially how it pertains to you, then make a appointment for a full consultation with a board certified plastic surgeon. You need to ask prior to your visit if he or she is certified... read more »