Feeling good is one of the secrets of looking good but to most people, one has to look good in order to feel good.
NOWADAYS, A LOT of people seek the help of cosmetic surgeons to enhance their physical appearance because of one purpose — to look good.
But there are various reasons why they want to be beautiful — it could be an ego-booster, to attract other people, to gain self-confidence, to regain self-esteem, to redeem broken relationships, for business agents who aim to increase sales, to be a credible endorser of products and services, and surprisingly some people visit the clinic because of depression or frustration and fear of growing old.
Whatever their reasons are, as a cosmetic surgeon, we look not only at their physical features but also their personality. We have to analyze every aspect why they come to consult and what they really want.
BY APPOINTMENT
In my practice, I entertain patients strictly by appointment because I really talk to them personally, listen intently, so I get to know them and to develop personal rapport. I also observe their manner of dressing up, their hairstyle and the way they carry themselves.
During the entire conversation, I take note of their facial expressions, the movements of their hands and fingers and the expressions of their eyes. These are some of the very important aspects in the assessment of the patient including psychosocial and behavioral evaluation.
Is the client: Perfectionist? Realist? Hesitant? Nervous?
These observations will serve as my guide in choosing the proper approach so that they will not expect too much, otherwise they will just be disappointed with the end result. They have to understand that surgical or non-invasive enhancements have limitations and will not result to perfection.
EDUCATE THE PATIENT
Moreover, I have to be a keen observant so that after the interview, I could pinpoint which part/s of the body or face that needs to be improved.
It is important for me to educate the patient first and let them understand that Cosmetic Surgery is a combination of art and science. As an art, it is obviously noticed and appreciated.
Just like a work of art, external beauty is a combination of enhanced body features with a blend of hairstyle, outfit, make-up (or absence of it), footwear and other accessories.
There are patients who come to my clinic for enhancements because they think they look awful. Upon examination, it turns out that they have beautiful facial features with minor imperfection.
Sometimes, it’s actually their hairstyle, manner of dressing or too much make up that I found to be disturbing.
I advise them to improve on these aspects and perhaps recommend to them some relaxing facial rejuvenation so that they will feel good. I would not do any surgical intervention on them unless I find something that truly needs to be improved even if they insist.
LESS IS MORE
As a science, it is dynamic since there are innovations as far as mechanisms and techniques are concerned.
Procedures nowadays are becoming simpler and involve relatively lesser invasive techniques to minimize complications.
I always believe in “Less is More.”
in other words, the more conservative approach, the better. I give them the options to address whatever concerns they have.
First, I discuss the simple and non-invasive procedure that is best for them. After which, I explain in detail the radical approach which they usually want. I convey to them the real expectations, limitations, possible complications and risks.
DOCTOR KNOWS BEST
Moreover, I always emphasize that the over-all result will not only depend on the surgeon but also most importantly on the patients themselves. It is a must to follow strictly the pre-operative and post-operative instructions as these can also affect the real outcome.
For those hesitant patients, I give them time to reflect and chance to think it over and refer them first to a wellness doctor to appease their fear.
I should say that, it really takes talent to be a good cosmetic surgeon because aside from being knowledgeable and skillful on the craft, one must be a good psychologist, good listener, a keen observer, compassionate and a good counselor -rolled into one.
A well-informed client will feel comfortable and calm before, during and after any beauty procedure. After all, the most important thing is: the patient as well as the doctor will be satisfied and happy with the result of the procedure done.