Breast Augmentation and Liposuction Blog - Dr. Bottger

It is for a patient’s own safety that plastic surgeons ask a variety of screening questions and/or do medical testing prior to performing surgeries. By understanding each patient inside and out, the surgeon has a better chance of reducing any risks or complications that can occur.

Surgeons should inquire about:

• Medical history: Plastic surgeons should be fully informed about patient’s medical history in order to determine which type of surgery, if any, is appropriate and safe for the patient.
• Psychological disorders: Mental illnesses, such as Body Dysmorphic Disorder, can give people warped self-images, making them poor candidates for plastic surgery. These individuals may believe that the surgeries will make them happier, when in actuality the surgeries may have the reverse effect.
• Substance abuse: Individuals with substance abuse problems may suffer from depression and undergo plastic surgery for the wrong reasons. The healing time for these patients can also be greatly lengthened, adding to the patient’s depression and despair.
• Medications: The surgeon should know about all medications the patient is taking prior to, during and after surgery. Even herbal medications and vitamins have been known to cause complications and delay or prevent proper healing.

The more honest you are with your surgeon, the better chance you have for a successful surgery and desired outcome.

If you would like to discuss plastic surgery options and live in the Philadelphia or Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania area, please contact cosmetic surgeon Dr. David Bottger today for a plastic surgery consultation.