From time to time, I will see patients wanting plastic surgery who are struggling with the fact that loved ones – whether it be a spouse, a parent, a sibling, or a friend – are fighting the patient on his or her decision to have cosmetic surgery.
Sometimes it happens right in front of me during the Beverly Hills plastic surgery consultation. “You look fine” or “You don’t need anything” or “No, don’t do that” are all things that I have heard said to my patient while we are going through the consultation process.
I have also had patients who are trying to keep something hidden from spouses or loved ones for fear they would not be supportive. I certainly understand that this can be difficult to navigate.
As your surgeon, I am your advocate and therefore there to help you through this. So what’s the best approach?
In my experience, the approach very simply depends on the specific objection.
YOU LOOK FINE THE WAY YOU ARE
There may be concerns that the patient will look “unnatural” or will ruin their natural beauty. Clearly this is a subjective value judgement. You are in the office because of something that you want to address that will make you feel good about yourself.
It is about how you see yourself and therefore your opinion is what matters here the most when it comes to aesthetic plastic surgery. Of course there are sometimes situations where a patient may obsess over something that cannot or should not be addressed with surgery.
This is where your selection in plastic surgeon is key. If you are with a qualified surgeon with whom you have developed a trusting relationship, have faith that he or she will be honest in their assessment and in determining what if anything can be done to meet your goals.
After listening to a patient, I will restate their concerns and goals to make sure we are on the same page.
After an examination, I will give them an honest appraisal of whether or not the patient’s goals can be attained. If I don’t think I can see what the patient sees or if I don’t think I can reach the goal the patient wants, I will say so.
YOU’RE RISKING YOUR HEALTH
Safety always comes first. Although this is certainly a well-intentioned sentiment, only a health care provider – usually your surgeon and/or your primary care provider – can make this decision.
In truth, to become board-certified, a surgeon must exemplify the highest levels of safety in practice. For all patients, I obtain a thorough medical history and perform a physical exam.
Additionally, all patients must obtain preoperative labs and appropriate studies prior to proceeding. Finally, for all patients over 40 years old, I request a medical clearance for surgery from the primary care provider to make sure no unnecessary risks are being taken.
I can provide real statistics on surgical risks that are based on medical studies so that everyone can feel comfortable knowing what those cosmetic surgery risks truly are.
IT’S TOO EXPENSIVE
Financial considerations certainly cannot be dismissed. If the patient is married or part of a family, the decision to pursue plastic surgery becomes more of a team decision.
If you are financing the surgery yourself and have no dependents in life who might be impacted by this expense, then the decision really is yours and yours alone.
One final note is that I always encourage patients to bring friends, family members, and spouses to their consultations. First of all, I love getting to know the important people in your life!
Beyond that, it is even more important in situations where they are skeptical. In my experience, having them alongside you during the process can be immeasurably effective at alleviating concerns and in many cases turns doubters into supporters.
I certainly strive to be your greatest advocate but I also want to educate loved ones so that they too can support you during your journey. To schedule your consultation, please contact my office today…and bring your family and friends!
Questions and Answers
Questions and AnswersWhy are you interested in cosmetic surgery?
Both women and men, may have a desire to adjust or enhance a characteristic they were naturally born with, such as their nose or body shape. Some may seek certain cosmetic surgery procedures to rejuvenate their appearance to a time when they felt and looked their best.
Life takes it effect on all of us making changes to our physical appearance resulting from factors such as weight gain or pregnancy.
Is honesty the best policy when discussing cosmetic surgery with my spouse?
Communicate to your partner the reasons behind your contemplation and for how long you’ve been considering it. Assure them that this decision is not impulsive and emphasize your genuine commitment to it.
Clearly articulate your dissatisfaction with the appearance of your stomach area and why you might want a tummy tuck as an example. Share your feelings openly, and if necessary, jot down your thoughts beforehand to ensure you convey everything you intend to express.
Is it important to research my desired procedures and discuss it with my significant other?
Absolutely. It’s reassuring to note the various aspects of the cosmetic surgery you desire with your loved ones. The majority of contemporary plastic surgery procedures boast an outstanding safety record.
Naturally, it’s advisable to select a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who specializes in the specific area of your interest.
Should I attend the initial consultation with my closest family members?
Attending the consultation with your spouse or family members, provides you with a more comprehensive understanding of the details involved in the procedure. This opportunity allows you to ask questions, review before-and-after photos, and gain greater confidence in the plastic surgeon’s skills and qualifications together.
What are the reasons my husband is against me wanting cosmetic surgery?
Many married women wonder why their husbands are against them getting what they may consider just a little nip and tuck. Usually your husband is concerned for your overall health following surgery.
There is also the concern that things might go wrong and your surgeon is unable to deliver on promised results. Open dialogue is always the best way to get to the bottom of your concerns.
Can I ask my family members what makes them uncomfortable about my plans?
It’s understandable that your partner has emotions regarding your body and may feel a sense of protectiveness. However, you have your own reasons for seeking this change.
By expressing your perspective and comparing their concerns with your own, there’s an opportunity for them to recognize and respect your feelings.
Sharing your side of the story may offer them a new perspective on your choice, shedding light on aspects of cosmetic surgery that they might not have considered independently.
Book Your Plastic Surgery Consultation Today!
One of the best ways to get through the debate of whether or not a cosmetic surgery is a good idea for you is to set up an initial consultation at Galanis Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills. We strongly recommend that this appointment is together with both you and your loved ones that are concerned about you wanting plastic surgery.
Together we can walk through the mental process of preparing for such cosmetic surgeries and clarify any cloudy areas through the consultation process. Give us a call today, we look forward to working with you.
