Who makes a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?
A patient ready to have to plastic surgery needs to be open-minded with a sense of realistic expectations. Cosmetic surgery is not a quick fix, but is an available option to enhance and support a healthy outlook. There are still limitations in medicine and with the technology available to medical professionals. A good candidate must have an established image of their self, and not harbor the expectation that it will, in anyway, relieve any personal crisis that may be occurring in their life.

Are their age restrictions for cosmetic surgery?
There is no real age requirements for cosmetic surgery, and each case should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.  A patient's body type and unique aging process can determine what procedures on in their best interest.  Having breast augmentation while an individual is still developing may be detrimental to their develpment and the patient may be asked to wait.  While Ostoplasty can be done on children as young as 5 years of age.  The doctor and the patient will determine what will best suit the needs and the anticipated outcome. 

Are the costs for cosmetic surgery covered by insurance?
Only cosmetic surgery done for reconstructive purposes or medical necessity, such as rhinoplasty due to breathing problems or breast augmentation due to a mastectomy, will be covered under most health insurance.  While elective cosmetic procedures are done at the patient's expense.  This is why so many who are looking to undertake costly cosmetic procedures have opted to vacation in another country where the procedure, due to the exchange rate is less expensive.  While they are there they can surround themselves with the surrounding beauty of their destination to assist in their recovery efforts.

What is the difference between reconstruction and cosmetic?
Reconstructive surgery is medically necessary to correct an abnormality that may not otherwise be corrected.  The goal is to restore function or "normality" of the physical feature. Cosmetic surgery is done solely on the discretion of the patient to enhance an otherwise normal physical attribute.  There is no medical reason necessitating the procedure and therefore does not quality as medically necessary. 

How long will it take me to recover?
Recovery times vary depending upon the procedure and each person will heal at their own pace, but most procedures have a historical window of healing based on previous surgical data.  Most cosmetic procedures are done on an outpatient basis and many patients are allowed to recover at home.  However, if the procedure is extensive or complications arise then an overnight stay at a hospital may be required.