A Surgeon's Guide to "Undo-Plasty"

Plastic surgery, like all fads, can't last forever. Just as the Rennaissance ideal of beauty of "Rubenesque" women -- full-figured, curvaceous ladies languishing on chaise lounges or in the shade of Poplar trees -- morphed into the "heroin chic" look of the nineties, so too will the size E breasts on a size 2 frame fall from favor.

It isn't happening yet -- indeed, plastic surgery procedures rose by 12.2 percent between 2006 and 2007 -- but a new phenomenon is on the rise too. And it might just spell the end of an era.

A March 3rd article in the Independent UK describes how a great many women are now having reverse surgeries to regain the lips, breasts, and eyes they'd augmented years ago.

Nigel Mercer, a Bristol-based plastic surgeon, offers the following advice:

A plastic surgeon's guide to getting it right

1. Make your own decisions. The real expert on your appearance and your concerns is you. Do not let anyone else talk you into a procedure.

2. Be informed. Anyone considering any cosmetic procedure should ensure that they are fully informed and accept the limitations and risks -- no surgeon or procedure is 100-percent risk-free.

3. Be comfortable. Make sure you feel comfortable with the surgeon and/or clinic you have chosen.

4. Know your surgeon. Many practitioners boast impressive sounding qualifications, but these can have little meaning. BAAPS can help you find an accredited surgeon in your area.

5. Get the timing right. Avoid surgery if you have recently experienced major life events, such as changing jobs, losing a loved one or the break-up of a relationship.

6. Beware of 'free' consultations. Avoid booking fees or non-refundable deposits. No reputable surgeon would normally impose any penalty for cancellations.

7. Consider the location. Do not travel a long distance for any surgery unless you are comfortable with follow-up arrangements and the management of complications which might arise.

8. Talk to your GP. Your doctor has no interest other than your welfare, so many GPs will be perfectly happy to independently advise patients.

9. You can always change your mind. Everything should be to your satisfaction and you have the option to cancel right up until the time you go to sleep for surgery.

10. Take your time. Undergoing any kind of surgery is a serious commitment, so make sure that the benefits outweigh the risks.

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