If you are considering plastic surgery, then you are about to embark on what could turn out to be one of the most thrilling and rewarding experiences of your life. Once you’ve talked yourself into exploring your options, you’ll need to find the right cosmetic surgeon. There are several factors to take into account when choosing your cosmetic surgeon.

Comfort Level

Keep in mind that this is going to turn into a very personal relationship. That’s why finding the right cosmetic surgeon often starts with someone you feel is personable. Engaging in a cosmetic procedure can be an intimate and sometimes intimidating experience. Your cosmetic surgeon needs to be understanding to your needs and concerns. It’s not a stretch to imagine that they’ve heard all the reasons why someone would want cosmetic surgery. You can find great comfort in the fact that the situation you’re going through has been experienced by literally thousands of women and men every year. This should diminish your own feelings but instead empower you to know you’re not alone.

Research the qualifications

Another major consideration for finding the right cosmetic surgeon is to know all about their qualifications, training, and experience. Where did they attend medical school?  Where was their medical internship and residency? Are they a member of the American Medical Association and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons? How long have they been performing cosmetic surgery? What is their success rate versus their complication rate? These are all valid questions that should be asked of any cosmetic surgeon candidate that you are taking under consideration. If they have problems answering any of these, then run, don’t walk to the nearest exit!

The Before and After 

You’ll also want to see the positive results of your prospective cosmetic surgeon. This can come in the form of volumes of “before and after” patient photos. But you could take that a step further by asking for specific referrals that you can contact on your own. If the cosmetic surgeon has done their job, then their former patients will be extremely happy to sing their praises.

The Right Facility

Finding the right cosmetic surgeon also means finding the right facility for your procedure. Some cosmetic surgeons provide complete services at their practice. This means the procedures and recovery can take place all in one space. This space should be comfortable, clean and certified. If the procedure you plan on undertaking with your plastic surgeon will take place off-site at a local hospital, then you should learn about the relationship your doctor has with that hospital. And you should also make sure that particular institute also has high standards.

No Pressure

Finally, when finding the right cosmetic surgeon, you should find someone who is caring and not a salesman. You should never feel as though you are being pushed into a procedure you don’t think you need. Your cosmetic surgeon should allow you as much time as you need to make your decision without any pressure. No matter the procedure, this is still your body and you will be living with the results. Take your time and make the right call.