Any medical procedure poses some risks, and that includes surgery performed simply to look good. By definition, in elective surgery any risk is unnecessary. But people take a variety of unnecessary risks -- riding horses, scuba diving -- for a variety of reasons. Depending on the point of view, jowls or bags under the eyes may be a very good reason.
First, doctors say, patients should be aware that the risks are there. At a meeting of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery here last week, surgeons in presentations and interviews said patients should realize that even common procedures like liposuction can be hazardous. People have died having it.
Another line of defense is to make sure that the doctor is experienced. On its Web site, www.surgery.org, the society recommends that patients check doctors' credentials and, if they are going to have surgery in offices, they should make sure that the doctors are accredited. The Web site has a list of groups that certify doctors' offices.
Still, a board-certified doctor with all the right credentials may specialize in face lifts but rarely inject fat into the face, or vice versa. Patients should find doctors experienced in the specific procedures that they want.
They should also make sure that the doctor will take the time to discuss the procedure in detail, including not only the rates of success in achieving cosmetic improvement, but also the risks. Finally, a second opinion never hurts.
Most important may be simply to remember than any medical procedure can pose dangers. One surgeon at the Vancouver meeting said the most dangerous words in cosmetic surgery were, "It's only liposuction."
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