If you’ve ever glanced in a mirror and wished you looked differently, you’re not alone. Millions of Americans have some amount of displeasure over the way they look. Some changes, like altering a hair style or color, are easy to make. Others, meanwhile, require the attention of a trained medical professional. Plastic surgery is growing in popularity as more individuals strive to find the perfect version of themselves. Before signing up for a nip or tuck, however, there are some important items potential patients need to consider.

Find the Right Surgeon

As interest in plastic surgery has grown, so too has the number of doctors who will perform it. Internal medicine doctors, OB/GYNs and other medical professionals are handling the procedures now, but many patients prefer the highly trained surgeons who specialize in plastic surgery. Whether you’re looking for plastic surgeons in Raleigh North Carolina or elsewhere in the country, be sure to check their qualifications and credentials, and pay attention to any past complaints or disciplinary actions.

Manage Your Expectations

While plastic surgery can be effective in fixing imperfections and making improvements in a person’s appearance, it’s important to understand that it’s not a magic wand. Patients who go into a procedure expecting an immediate improvement in their social life or relationship status might be disappointed. Still, most patients consider their surgeries a success, with those who have had breast augmentations and tummy tucks especially satisfied.

Start Saving Up

Elective plastic surgery is typically not covered by insurance policies, meaning the patient will be paying for the procedure out of his or her pocket. With something this important, cutting corners isn’t an option, so be sure to have a firm idea of the price and have enough money saved up. The most common surgery, breast augmentation, costs more than $3,800 on average. A facelift is another popular procedure, but it’s also one of the most expensive at almost $7,700.

Plastic surgery can be a worthwhile procedure for some patients. Follow these tips to make sure it’s right for you.