Plastic surgery is a touchy issue as it deals with changing the general outlook of a person. While it can be a norm for some in more modern societies, plastic surgery can also be a taboo for others. Although plastic surgery in Malaysia isn’t as famed as it is in Korea, it is becoming increasingly popular here. More Malaysians are becoming extra conscious of their physical appearance.
Not all cosmetic surgeries are huge surgeries, and the advantages of non-invasive as well as minimally invasive procedures has prompted many to take their first step towards looking better. With Malaysia’s status as a hub for medical tourism in the region, aesthetic clinics in Malaysia are also receiving an increasing number of patients from outside the country. However, not all aesthetic clinics in Malaysia are safe and professionally recognized.
Clearly, this is very important and there are so many patients out there who have had bad experiences at clinics that perform non-regulated practices. Hence, to learn a little more about safe cosmetic surgery, we spoke to Dr. Alice Prethima Michael, who is an aesthetic physician, cosmetic surgeon, as well as anti-ageing and total wellness specialist at Ageless Medispa. Here are 9 things you should look into before considering cosmetic surgery:
1. Before you decide on any aesthetic clinics or doctors who will be performing procedures on you, make sure that the clinic and doctors are certified by governing bodies such as the Malaysian Medical Council and the National Registry of Registered Medical Practitioners Practising Aesthetic Medical Practice.
2. There are no direct laws to prevent unqualified people to perform cosmetic surgery or non-surgical procedures, or to make them face criminal charges even if the patient dies or gets disfigured as a result of a botched job. At present, the Health Ministry only has powers to act under the Private Healthcare Facilities and Services Act (PHFSA) 1998 and also the Medical Act 1971. However, these laws are deemed to be insufficient to protect patients from being duped by unqualified surgeons.
3. More and more people are falling prey to unscrupulous beauty centres which feed on the patients’ insecurities and desires. Hence, the Health Ministry drew up a guideline in 2007 on the dos and don’ts of cosmetic surgery. Non-medical specialists, including private general practitioners, are not allowed to carry out procedures such as breast implants, liposuction, eyelid surgery, laser and light-based therapies as well as hair transplants.
4. Before you decide on any procedures, get your expectations right. Cosmetic surgery won’t make you look like someone else, but it may give you greater self-confidence and add to the better of your well-being. Make sure to communicate with your surgeon and ask tons of questions. Let him or her know your goals and be comfortable with your surgeon.
5. For instance, when it comes to fillers, there are injectable ones such as Botox and Restylane. However, like all medical procedures, injectable and permanent dermal fillers carry a risk of side effects. These side effects include bleeding, bruising, swelling, redness, itching, skin discolouration, bacterial infection, viral infection, ulceration, lumps and allergic reaction. For that reason, it is important for you to be cautious and knowledgeable before making a decision.
6. Don’t let your surgeon push or manipulate you into anything. You know yourself the best and at the end of the day, the only person who should be making decisions regarding your cosmetic surgery is yourself. Also, be informed and accept the limitations as well as the risks of the procedure. Remember that no surgeons are 100% risk-free, no results are guaranteed, no implants last forever, everyone heals at a different rate and recovery can be painful.
7. Do your research on the aesthetic clinic and doctors you are considering for your cosmetic surgery. As mentioned above, the medical aesthetic practitioner must be licensed accordingly and possess the highest quality training as well as advanced surgical skills. If you have any friends in the medical field, ask them for advice and discuss with them your plans.
8. Make sure you are informed and fully understand: How to prepare for the surgery, what will happen during the surgery, the risks and side effects of the surgery, how long the recovery period will take, the aftercare policy, how the policy works should anything go wrong, any costs should revision or repair work is required, the life span of any implants.
9. Remember to take your time in deciding whether or not to commit to a surgery. Cosmetic surgery is often life-changing and this is a decision to think hard about, taking into account all risks, such as your health, finance and emotions.
If you’d like to learn more about cosmetic surgery, visit this website or contact Ageless Medispa at 03-20950458. You can also email your enquiries to enquiry@alice2u.com.
