More men and women than ever are discovering the confidence-boosting possibilities of plastic surgery, from body contouring to facial rejuvenation. But just because cosmetic surgery is becoming more widespread here in the San Diego area and around the globe doesn’t mean it’s right for everyone. In fact, it’s not unheard of for plastic surgeons to turn down patients altogether or refuse to perform certain surgeries on certain people.
Wondering why a surgeon would ever say no to a request? Here are a few big reasons you might be denied.
1. Your expectations aren’t realistic.
Plastic surgery can do a lot of amazing things, but it isn’t magic. If your vision for your results is way beyond the realm of what’s possible, your surgeon may steer you away from surgery. For example, if you’re expecting a breast lift that leaves zero scars, a mommy makeover with no recovery time, or a facelift that makes you look 30 years younger, your surgeon may be hesitant to agree. He or she won’t promise outcomes that aren’t possible or don’t make sense for you.
2. You have existing health issues.
A trustworthy surgeon will prioritize what’s best for you. Sometimes that means performing a procedure that will help you feel more confident. Other times, that means recommending against surgery for the sake of your health. Your surgeon may turn you down if you’re struggling with health issues such as:
- A BMI that’s too high or low
- Smoking
- Bleeding disorders
- Heart disease
3. A different procedure may be more effective.
When you discuss your goals with your surgeon, he or she may suggest a different procedure that can better help you achieve them. For example, if you want perkier breasts and think implants alone are the way to go, he or she may recommend adding or substituting a breast lift instead.
4. You’re a “surgiholic”—a plastic surgery addict.
Sometimes too much is too much. There’s a line between carefully choosing cosmetic procedures as needed and constantly getting more surgery because you’re struggling to feel at peace with your body.
If you can’t stop making enhancements, you may be dealing with a mental health condition called Body Dysmorphic Disorder. Surgeons who think this may be the case will strongly caution you against additional surgeries, especially if they pose big risks.
5. You’re getting surgery to please someone else.
Plastic surgery should be a decision you make for yourself. If your spouse, friends, family members, or other outside sources are the driving force behind your choice, your surgeon may hesitate. Healthy motivations are absolutely essential. Bottom line: It’s your body, and no one should be dictating what you do with it but you.
6. You refuse to follow your surgeon’s instructions.
There’s nothing wrong with breaking the rules once in a while, but plastic surgery recovery is not the time to do it. Your surgeon won’t agree to do a procedure if you don’t agree to carefully follow his or her instructions. If you flat-out refuse to wear a compression garment after liposuction or are dead set on returning to the gym a week after a tummy tuck, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a surgeon who will happily take you on as a patient.
For the right people, and under the right circumstances, plastic surgery can be a transformative and deeply rewarding experience. If you think it may be right for you, or if you have any questions about whether you’re a candidate, we would love to talk with you. Contact us online or give us a call at (858) 452-1981 to set up a free consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. We can’t wait to meet you!
