Congratulations – you’ve finally decided to take the next step and proceed with cosmetic plastic surgery. While this is an exciting time for you, we understand that you may also have some anxiety about the coming weeks.

To ensure your cosmetic plastic surgery experience is a safe and smooth surgery and recovery period, we’ve put together a few tips and strategies. From today until the morning of your surgery, use these tips to maximize your experience through careful planning.

Timing

Start by evaluating the amount of time you will need for your cosmetic plastic surgery procedure, and the amount of time you will need for recovery. Plan your surgery at a time when you social commitments are low, and you can take some time off of work. The key to a successful recovery from a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure is to take the needed time away, and relax as much as possible. Stress will only add more time for recovery.

The amount of time needed for each cosmetic plastic surgery procedure is different. Make sure you speak with your doctor before hand to understand the time for recovery. Share with him the type of activities you do in your normal routine, and any upcoming events that you may be preparing for.

Support

While most cosmetic plastic surgery procedures will not require bed rest, you may wish to have a few family members or friends that are willing to help out for the first week or so. Even though you are electing to have a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure, it is still real surgery, and you should plan accordingly.

Financing

Once you’ve decided on a cosmetic plastic surgery procedure, you must also decide how you will pay for it. Will you be obtaining financing, or have you had time to save for the procedure?

While plastic surgery costs are usually not covered by your regular medical insurance, there a number of ways you can pay for your chosen procedure. Check with your plastic surgery center. Most centers will be able to offer you a variety of ways to cover the plastic surgery costs.

In addition to the cost of the surgery, you should also plan for small incidental expenses. If you don’t have adequate sick or vacation days stored at work, you may be required to take a few days without pay.

Being prepared will ensure your success with any cosmetic plastic surgery procedure you choose.