It only takes a few seconds to decide to buy a new bronzer on impulse or choose an outfit for the day. However, some beauty decisions (such as cosmetic surgery) are much bigger than that, and require weeks of research and building up your confidence.
Before you book an appointment to get the procedure you want, it’s important to be fully certain and ready for it. If you’re wondering how you can tell if you’re physically, emotionally, and mentally ready for a cosmetic procedure, here are eight signs that you’re ready to take on this huge beauty step.
1. You’re Doing It for Yourself
The best results come when your motivation to get cosmetic surgery is internal. You know you’re ready for a cosmetic procedure when you’re doing it because you want to, not to meet anyone else’s beauty standards. You should think of surgery as a tool to feel empowered, align your appearance with your ideal version of yourself, and reclaim your beauty through confidence.
2. You’ve Done the Research
Cosmetic surgery is a medical procedure, so you should educate yourself about the procedure you’re considering. By knowing what to expect, you can advocate for yourself and stay grounded in your decision.
Make a list of questions to ask cosmetic surgeons, and most importantly, research reputable surgeons who specialize in your procedure. For example, if you’re looking to get a breast lift, consider going for someone like Jeffrey Donaldson, MD, who specializes in breast augmentation surgery.
3. You’re in Good Physical Health
Your body needs to recover smoothly after your cosmetic surgery, so you have to be healthy physically, not just mentally and emotionally. If you’re dealing with chronic illness or hormonal imbalances, it could get in the way of your healing process after surgery. So, it’s best to get cleared by your doctor and ensure you’re in the pink of health before pushing through with your procedure.
Make sure your lifestyle supports healing; that means you shouldn’t be smoking, over-stressing, or skipping meals. Share your full medical history when asked by your surgeon. In the days leading up to your procedure, be sure to hydrate, sleep well, and eat healthy meals to prepare your body for the ride.
4. You Have Realistic Expectations About the Results
Patients with grounded, realistic expectations are often the most satisfied after their procedure. Surgeries exist to enhance features that you already have, not transform you into someone else. In fact, the natural look is one of the top plastic surgery trends today, with more women choosing subtle results over dramatic ones. If you’re not expecting your surgery results to fix your relationships, career, and how your peers see you, then you may be ready for this big move.
5. You’re Not Second-Guessing Yourself
If you’re deliberating whether this is the best decision for you, then you might not be ready for cosmetic surgery. True readiness feels sure and steady, not confusing and filled with pressure and doubt. Maybe you still need a few extra months of research to feel completely safe pushing through with the procedure. If that’s the case, take your time, do more research on the surgery you’re eyeing, and consult experts if necessary.
6. You’re Financially Prepared
Even if you feel physically healthy and mentally ready for cosmetic surgery, you can’t just schedule an appointment without proper financial planning. These surgeries aren’t cheap, and they’re huge investments for those who are seriously considering them.
7. You Understand the Recovery Process
You know you’re ready for a cosmetic procedure if you’re aware of everything that happens in the recovery process. You have a deep understanding of how your body will heal and that it doesn’t do so overnight. It might take weeks or even months to see bruises go away, depending on the procedure you’re considering. You might also need to have long periods of limited activity because of the swelling and temporary discomfort. If you and your lifestyle are ready for that, then you should be good to go for surgery.
8. You Have a Solid Support System
While getting surgery is a personal decision, it’s also best to have people around you who support you. These people will help you do research on your surgery, do errands on your behalf while you heal, and talk you through any anxious thoughts and feelings you have about your procedure. If you have friends and family who are willing to help out before and after your procedure, you’re more than ready to get it done.
Finally, the most important part of any cosmetic surgery is your intention behind it. Feeling ready for your procedure means you’re approaching this brand-new beauty journey with self-love and confidence, not societal pressure and hesitation. Take your time, do your research, and choose the path that aligns with your idea of beauty, not anyone else’s.
Images from Cosmetic by Marina Dean-Francis – See full story here.
