Doctor Recommended Top 3 New Year’s Resolutions Target Anyone Considering Cosmetic Surgery

With the New Year finally here, many are making their New Year’s resolutions. Top among these are typically things related to health, weight, finances and family.

Kristin Maynard, a junior publicist with Empower Public Relations recently shared with us some important things to consider, and some doctor recommended New Year’s resolutions for individuals who may be considering having cosmetic surgery in the coming year as part of their plan to look and feel better in 2015.

For those “considering cosmetic surgery, whether it be a face lift, tummy tuck, or the popular Brazilian butt lift, there are a few things you should be doing now.” This according to nationally recognized plastic surgeon Dr. Gregory Wiener M.D. FASC.

“Creating a healthy lifestyle is of the utmost importance before undergoing any type of surgical procedure. We want to make sure prospective patients know that cosmetic surgery is not a fix-all for an unhealthy lifestyle,” says Dr. Wiener. “There are a few things folks should do prior to scheduling any plastic surgery to help make it a safer, more positive experience.”

Here is a list of the doctor’s top 3 New Year’s resolutions, which are perfect for anyone, and a must for those considering cosmetic surgery in 2015.

1. Quit Smoking: While this should be on every smoker’s to-do list, it’s especially important for people who will be going under the knife. “Smoking causes constricted blood vessels and reduced oxygen levels in the blood cells, both of which can lead to infection and slowed recovery,” warns Dr. Wiener.

2. Lose Weight: This is particularly important for patients who are obese. “Patients who are significantly overweight run the risk of blood clots and expose themselves to problems with healing,” cautions Dr. Wiener. “While it’s not necessary to be your ideal weight prior to surgery, maintaining a healthy Body Mass Index is very important.”

3. Lower Blood Pressure: Stabilizing high blood pressure before elective surgery is critical. “Because general anesthesia is used, having normal blood pressure levels is crucial,” says Dr. Wiener. “High blood pressure increases the risk of heart attack and blood pressure medicine can cause bleeding during and post-surgery. It’s best to get this under control pre-surgery.”

Dr. Wiener reminds prospective patients that the choice to undergo cosmetic surgery should be a thoughtful one. “The good news is these goals are not only achievable, they’re great resolutions for everyone,” he says.