Watch Out for These Red Flags in Plastic Surgery

More people are getting plastic surgery to enhance their looks, improve body image, and build self-esteem and confidence. The rise in minimally-invasive and nonsurgical treatments has made cosmetic surgery more popular than ever. Non-invasive procedures in NYC, for instance, dramatically enhance the skin’s appearance, reduce wrinkles, and improve visible signs of aging with minimal downtime, no surgical incisions, and generally less risk compared to traditional surgery. However, if you are considering a plastic surgery, industry experts warn that you should watch out for some red flags, which if ignored, can have disastrous consequences.

You should never feel pressured to go ahead with treatment. Do some serious research and look out for these red flags before you make the decision to have a cosmetic surgical procedure.

• Choosing your plastic surgeon: When choosing a plastic surgeon, make sure you are in good hands. Confirm their credentials, qualifications, and experience at your initial consultation. Be wary of a surgeon who offers perfect results. Read up about the procedure you’re considering, understand what it involves, and what it can and cannot do. A good surgeon will be honest with you about your expectations as well as about the potential risks of the procedure.
• Comfort and communication matter: Feeling comfortable with your plastic surgeon is essential for a successful experience. If you find it difficult to communicate openly or feel that your concerns are not being heard, it’s a red flag. A qualified and trustworthy surgeon is patient, approachable, and willing to answer all your questions thoroughly. They will take the time to understand your goals and provide clear explanations about the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes. If you sense hesitation, rushed responses, or a lack of empathy, reconsider your choice.
• Ability to handle risks: A qualified plastic surgeon should not only be skilled in performing procedures but also competent in assessing and managing potential risks. Ask how the surgeon has handled complications in the past and what protocols are in place for emergencies. In addition to openly discussing potential risks and setting realistic expectations, a good surgeon will outline a clear plan for managing complications.
• Over-promoting: If a plastic surgeon is aggressively promoting procedures or pushing unnecessary treatments, it’s a major red flag. Experts say that that number of ads a surgeon displays is often inversely proportional to the quality of their services. Of course, even ethical surgeons engage in some promotion but they focus in on patient needs rather than maximizing profits. Over-promoting can indicate a lack of genuine care, where the surgeon prioritizes sales over safety and realistic outcomes.
• Discount deals: Though cost is an important factor when it comes to plastic surgery, beware of unusually low prices or heavy discount deals. Quality cosmetic procedures require skilled surgeons, proper facilities, and safe practices—all of which come at a cost. There’s a chance that with a cheaper option, you may end up paying more in the long run if you need revisions or additional follow-up procedures. Prioritize experience, reputation, and your safety over cost to ensure the best possible outcome.
• Facility accreditation: Ensure that the surgical facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities (AAAASF) or another recognized accrediting body. Accreditation ensures that the facility meets strict standards for safety, proper equipment, surgeon credentials, and qualified staffing. A lack of accreditation may put your health and results at risk. Prioritizing an accredited facility provides peace of mind that your procedure will be performed in a safe, well-regulated environment.
• Online reviews: Approach online reviews with caution. These reviews can be misleading when evaluating a plastic surgeon. Negative reviews may sometimes come from competitors, while overly positive ones could be artificially boosted. If a surgeon has faced a malpractice lawsuit, it does not mean that he or she is inefficient. Even first-rate surgeons are sometimes sued. However, be cautious of a surgeon who has been sued several times and has consistently poor reviews, as this may indicate genuine issues with the surgeon’s skills, patient care, or results. Instead of relying solely on online ratings, verify credentials, ask for before-and-after photos, and seek recommendations from trusted sources to make an informed decision.
• Evaluating plastic surgery photos: Here are five key considerations when evaluating before-and-after photos:
  • Images taken immediately after surgery do not reflect final results, as swelling and healing continue for months.
  • Identify how long after surgery the “after” photos were taken. Scars and swelling evolve over time, with full scar maturation taking a year or more.
  • Look for personalized results. A good surgeon tailors procedures to each patient’s unique body type and goals, which should be evident in varied results.
  • Verify incision placement, Skilled surgeons strategically place incisions in natural folds or under clothing for minimal visibility.
  • Look for patients with similar body types to set realistic expectations. The absence of “before” photos is a red flag.

Whether it’s a minimally invasive treatment like abdominal liposuction or a non-surgical option such as Lumecca IPL in NYC, take the time to research thoroughly and watch for red flags before making your decision.