Tips for giving plastic surgery as a holiday gift

The idea of gifting plastic surgery has been around for several years. The growing acceptance of plastic surgery and other anti-aging techniques, along with the timing of the year, has led to an increase in the number of cosmetic procedures that are given as holiday gifts. Noninvasive procedures such as Botox and other injectables are popular as people get together with family and friends at holiday parties.

However, purchasing a gift card for plastic surgery is not as simple as it sounds. For example, it is not possible to immediately set up a surgery date with a qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Ethical surgeons will not agree to perform surgery until they have evaluated and determined that the patient is a good candidate for any given procedure. It may be that you want to give a breast augmentation or facelift or some other surgical procedure, but you will not be able to pay for that service and select a date until the surgeon has agreed that the patient is a good candidate. Also, the prospective patient has to meet with the surgeon and feel comfortable with them.

Finally, although the intent behind giving the gift might be good—for example, giving a breast augmentation to your spouse who has frequently been talking about it—the recipient of the gift might also be insulted at the gesture.

If you are considering giving someone special in your lift plastic surgery as a gift, follow these rules:

1. Be sure to have discussed this in advance with your loved one. If they have mentioned it before, chances are they are interested in at least obtaining additional information about that procedure through an initial consultation. If you bring it up with them, it may send the message that you think the way they look is inadequate.
2. Thoroughly research the plastic surgeons in your area. Beware of so-called "cosmetic" surgeons. Plastic surgeons are board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery which means they have undergone rigorous training, examinations and are held to the highest ethical standard. Select several surgeons who your loved one can meet with. Plastic surgery is a personal choice, and the patient should feel comfortable when selecting their surgeon.
3. Plastic surgery has benefits, but it also a medical procedure and has risks and potential complications. An alternative to the treatment you are considering might be a better choice.
4. Pre-paying for a treatment your loved one regularly gets, such as Botox or fillers, can be a great gift if you prefer to have a gift card ready for them.

When properly considered and vetted, giving someone the gift of plastic surgery during the holiday can make them feel great about themselves and enter the new year feeling like a new person!