Whether cosmetic surgery is for you or not #TeamCoco are happy when you’re happy, and if that means embracing all your natural lumps and bumps, or having a little nip and tuck, we’re all for your happiness and wellbeing.
So, we asked leading expert Aesthetic Surgeon, Professor Marcos Sforza of MyAesthetics all about the health essentials when considering cosmetic surgery. Here are his 6 cosmetic surgery health essentials.
The decision to undergo cosmetic surgery isn’t something that should be taken lightly. However, if you do decide a procedure is the right choice for you, it’s important you’re aware of what you need to consider before proceeding.
Professor Marcos Sforza, an Expert Aesthetic Surgeon at MyAesthetics, shares his expert tips on the major health considerations you need to know…
Let’s talk about allergies
It’s vital you’re candid with your surgeon about any known allergies you might have experienced, before undergoing a cosmetic procedure. You should mention any minor past reactions too such as those experienced from silver or nickel in jewellery, watch straps or waistbands.
While most allergic reactions are not life-threatening, they can be uncomfortable and, in some cases, require extra treatment in the form of topical corticosteroids or antihistamines.
For example; some dressings contain ingredients such as acrylates, silicones, rubber and latex which can cause irritation to those with sensitive skin.
Keep your weight in check
There is strong evidence indicating there are higher rates of complications for patients with both very high and low BMIs. So, if you’re thinking about going down the surgical route, it’s important you’re in the best physical condition possible.
According to guidelines from NHS England, treatment ‘is safer and more likely to work if you’ve first got to a healthier weight’ and to achieve optimum results for cosmetic surgery procedures, it’s typically best if your BMI is under 30.
Being overweight can increase your chances of developing sleep apnoea, a complicating factor in the administration of general anaesthesia. Excessive weight can also put the body under more strain and slow down your recovery after surgery.
Cut it out
While some people anticipate having to give up smoking and drinking before they embark on surgery, many people do not recognise you should also press pause on these activities for some time after your procedure too.
Nicotine causes the blood vessels to become narrower, restricting blood supply to organs and tissues which can impede a wound’s recovery post-surgery. We strongly advise patients to stop smoking at least 2 weeks before surgery to help reduce complications. In fact, according to recent findings, smokers require 33 percent more anaesthesia during an operation than non-smokers.
Drinking alcohol should also be avoided as it can have a negative impact on the body’s natural healing process. Regular alcohol consumption prior to surgery could mean you’ll reduce the effectiveness of sedatives and anaesthetic agents during a procedure, resulting in a possible slower recovering time.
It’s also important to discuss if you use any recreational drugs too, as this can increase anaesthetic risks. Just be honest, and your surgeon will discuss with you the best way forward to guarantee the best possible outcomes of your surgery.
Existing conditions
Before considering cosmetic surgery, you should be aware there are certain pre-existing medical conditions, which may impact your cosmetic surgery journey.
For example, if you have asthma and are scheduled to undergo surgery, you must ensure it is well-controlled before a procedure takes place.
Book a check-up with your doctor prior to booking a procedure and a few weeks before it is scheduled to take place. This ensures your condition is being monitored correctly and you’re well enough for any surgery.
Any heart or respiratory conditions must be reported. If you suffer from more acute asthma, you may need to take steroids or inhaled corticosteroids to manage your symptoms better in advance.
Diabetes is another pre-existing condition that could possibly complicate surgery. If you are diabetic, hyperglycaemia (high blood glucose) or hypoglycaemia (low blood glucose) could slow down wound healing after a procedure.
It’s vital you keep your blood glucose within the boundaries recommended by your doctor. You should also consider other health precautions such as eating plenty of high-quality protein to assist with wound healing and keeping stress to a minimum, as it can elevate glucose levels.
Make sure you let your surgeon know about any other medications that you’re using, even if not regularly. This is important because even minor medication could have some side-effects. For example; some drugs like aspirin can increase the risk of bleeding.
Mental health
While people tend to think of the physical toll cosmetic surgery can take, it’s essential you think about the mental implications too. If you’ve experienced mental health issues in the past, you may be asked to consider psychological screening before any surgery takes place.
Your surgeon has a duty of care to not only protect your physical safety, but also your emotional wellbeing, and to ensure you’re fully equipped to cope with any challenges that may arise.
They should offer you detailed information in your consultation about what a procedure will entail and the realities of the recovery process too to give you reassurance and transparency.
Choosing the one
When it comes to finding the right cosmetic surgeon for you, it’s important to select a clinic that offers as much face-to-face time as possible.
Look for cosmetic surgeons who are members of the representative bodies tasked with maintaining the highest industry standards, such as the General Medical Council, ISAPS, BAAPS or BAPRAS.
Remember, the best cosmetic surgeons are those who are honest and realistic when it comes to managing a patient’s expectations. The most reputable practices will never rush you into making a decision or try to tempt you with the lure of last minute ‘deals’ or discounts.
We would like to offer thanks to Professor Marcos Sforza for sharing his knowledge and background in cosmetic surgery to help with our #CocoBeauty feature. For more information about MyAesthetics search online.