Plastic surgery can be an excellent way to improve your appearance, increase self-confidence and get a fresh look on life, but it's important to remember that it isn't right for everyone. Having plastic surgery is a big decision, and it certainly isn't a choice that should be taken lightly. In order to decide if cosmetic surgery is right for you, it is important to consider a number of different issues before you decide. Spend some time researching your options, discuss your concerns with a qualified plastic surgeon and consider thee following five factors before you decide to have plastic surgery.

1. Personal Expectations

What do you expect to gain from having plastic surgery? Always remember that surgery is never a quick fix for life's problems. Going into a procedure with the belief that it will dramatically change your life can lead to disappointment, frustration and even depression. Your goal should be to have realistic expectations about what plastic surgery will truly accomplish. Whether your trying to look younger or fix perceived flaws, never assume that simply having surgery is the "magic bullet" that will solve your problems.

2. Physical and Emotional Health

Before any type of plastic surgery, your overall health status will be thoroughly assessed. In addition to your physical health, you doctor will also consider your psychological and emotional well being. Individuals suffering from depression or other mental illnesses are typically not considered good candidates for plastic surgery. Before you decide to have plastic surgery, think about your own physical and emotional health. Are you generally healthy? Are you emotionally prepared to deal with the effects of plastic surgery? Discuss both of these important issues with your doctor in order to determine if you are a good candidate for plastic surgery.

3. Cost

The total costs of a plastic surgery procedure just might be the deciding factor for many people. Elective surgery is typically not covered by insurance, which means that you will need to fund the procedure yourself. While there are many different financing options for cosmetic procedures, you need to give serious thought to whether the surgery fits into your budget and your lifestyle.

4. Surgeon Qualifications and Credentials

In order to achieve the best possible results, it is absolutely essential to choose a plastic surgeon that is qualified, skilled and experienced. There are many ways to find a good surgeon, including asking for referrals from area doctors and hospitals. Once you have been referred to particular doctor, check his or her qualifications and credentials with your states medical licensing board. Then, schedule a consultation appointment to discuss your options. As you are talking to the doctor, ask yourself a few key questions. Does the doctor have good patient skills? Do you feel comfortable talking about different procedures with the doctor? Does he or she fully explain the possible risks and benefits of the procedure you are considering? All of these factors can play a major role in your decision, so always take the time to fully consider the qualifications and credentials of each potential surgeon.

5. Recovery Time

The length of time it takes to recover from a particular procedure may also play a large role in your decision to get plastic surgery. Each procedure can vary dramatically. Some procedure require only a few hours of recovery time before you can return to most of your normal activities, while other procedures can requires weeks of recovery time. You need to determine how much of your time you are able to give toward the recovery process. Recovery is an essential part of the plastic surgery process, and failing to follow your doctor's orders can seriously compromise your final results.