The Advice that Plastic Surgeons Give Their Family and Friends

San Diego plastic surgeon Abhay Gupta fields a wide variety of questions about what goes on behind the doors of his practice. He is known for his open and honest approach to patient care, and his patients greatly appreciate his candor. But have you ever wondered what a plastic surgeon like Dr. Gupta tells his friends and family when he is “off the clock”? Here, he reveals the advice that plastic surgeons give those they are closest to.

We Don’t Give Unsolicited Opinions

Everyone has their own idea of what is attractive, and it’s your body, so it’s up to you to decide which features or areas of your body you’d like to alter through plastic surgery. Most plastic surgeons try to avoid offering unsolicited opinions. Instead, they ask patients what specific problem(s) they want to address and which area(s) they want to improve upon. Plastic surgeons are natural problem-solvers, and the answers to these questions help guide their recommendations.

No Question Is Off-Limits

Patients should feel comfortable asking about all aspects of their planned surgery, recovery and results. It is surprising when certain patients don’t ask a single question, because having surgery is a huge decision that requires a lot of research. The best surgeons are happy to answer any question.

Dr. Gupta shared questions to ask your plastic surgeon in a blog post last March.

Skin Protection and Maintenance Should Start Early

Anti-aging is a popular topic in plastic surgery. Many people want to know how early is too early to begin wrinkle-reducing treatment with Botox and fillers. The answer is that it depends on the individual and the rate at which they age. Some individuals have noticeable wrinkles in their late 20s, others don’t see wrinkles until their early 40s. It is different for everyone.

On the topic of anti-aging, it is important to understand that smart skin care habits can stave off the need for anti-aging treatment with Botox and fillers. Daily sun protection with sunblock and sunglasses (especially in Southern California!) and a routine of medical-grade skin care products with antioxidants and retinoids keep the skin nourished and healthy. In fact, these measures may help a person avoid plastic surgery altogether!

Don’t Neglect Your Health

While plastic surgeons are happy to improve the appearance of a loved one, many would prefer not to treat a cosmetic issue that could have been avoided with healthy lifestyle habits. Dr. Gupta and his fellow surgeons encourage everyone to take care of their bodies by eating right, hydrating, staying active, not smoking and not tanning. Being in the best physical shape possible going into surgery also reduces the risk of complications during the operation.

To meet with board-certified plastic surgeon Abhay Gupta at his San Diego practice, please call (858) 621-6000 or email us today and request a consultation.

Fun Fact of the Month: In a few days, we will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with traditional Irish food and beer. But did you know that, according to rumors, Saint Patrick wasn’t even born in Ireland? Folklore states that Patrick (real name: Maewyn Succat) was born in Great Britain, kidnapped by pirates when he was 16 and held captive in Ireland for six years.