Deciding whether to undergo plastic surgery is a deeply personal decision and not always an easy one to make. Over the last couple of decades, there have been exciting advances in the field. The possibility of cosmetic enhancement or reconstruction has become available to an ever-widening public. When a patient goes into a procedure with clear motivations and expectations, the change that surgery brings can mean a healthier and happier life.
At Princeton Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Hamawy is committed to not only providing education on each procedure, but also in helping patients understand the nuances of their decision. When physical perfection becomes the priority, it will inevitably lead to disappointment and often to a number of unnecessary surgeries. Rather than trying to create a new person overnight, Dr. Hamawy is interested in enhancing natural beauty through subtle shifts in the body. Discerning which changes are right for you can require knowledge and a keen self-awareness, but there a few practical factors which can serve as helpful guidelines.
Feelings Aren’t Forever
When making a decision about surgery, it is always important to consider your current emotional context.
If you are struggling with depression, anxiety or grief, it is unlikely that a surgery is the solution you are looking for. Although there are certainly cases when a physical change can improve the emotional well-being of a patient, your personality and the details of your life situation will not drastically change through an operation. For this reason, it is often a good idea to consult a therapist to discuss your motivation. With or without surgery, nothing can replace the self-acceptance, which is always the starting place for change.
Breaking the Beauty Myth
As we all know, our culture often propagates oppressive and unrealistic beauty expectations which are impossible to meet. When deciding whether to undergo surgery, make sure that it is a decision you are making for yourself rather than to conform to the pressures of a specific person or society at large. If you are unhappy with your appearance, first consider nonsurgical and less permanent alternatives.
Choosing Health
Perhaps the most important factor in your decision should be your health. Patients who smoke or have pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, obesity or vascular disease, can have an increased risk of complications and a slower recovery time. Although the risks involved in surgery are minimal, they should be taken seriously. Whenever possible, alterations to the body are always better made through exercise and a healthy diet.
For Dr. Hamawy, both your physical and emotional well-being are a priority. Because of his commitment to the overall welfare of every client, he reserves the right to say no as he works side-by-side with patients to find a path which is not only responsible, but will highlight every aspect of health.
If you are unsure if surgery is right for you, don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule a consultation. We will be happy to help you evaluate the best solution and to provide the steps you need to get there. Give us a call today at 609-910-1114.
