Top 5 Cosmetic Surgery FAQs

Here are top 5 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about cosmetic surgery - along with detailed answers to help you understand what to know before proceeding.

1. Am I a good candidate for cosmetic surgery?

An ideal candidate is someone in good overall health, with realistic expectations about what surgery can achieve. We are simply trying to complement, augment and enhance your existing features.

It’s important that you are undergoing the procedure for your own goals, not just to please others.

Factors like smoking, uncontrolled medical conditions (e.g., diabetes, heart disease) can increase risks and influence suitability.

Tip: Before booking, list your goals and concerns, and ask your surgeon if you meet the criteria for that specific procedure.

2. How do I choose the right surgeon and facility?

Verify that your surgeon is board-certified in the relevant specialty (plastic surgery), and ask about their specific experience with the procedure you’re considering. Dr. Zhang is double-board certified both in Canada and the United States.

Ask how many times they’ve done the procedure, see before-and-after photos, and find out where the surgery will be performed (hospital vs. outpatient surgical centre).

Make sure the facility is accredited, with appropriate equipment, staff and safety protocols.

Tip: During your consultation, ask for credentials, facility details, complication rates, and how they handle complications. A transparent surgeon will walk you through this.

3. What are the risks, and what’s the recovery like?

Cosmetic surgery, like any surgery, comes with risks: bleeding, infection, wound healing problems, anesthesia-related issues, unsatisfactory results or need for revision surgery.

Recovery time varies widely depending on the procedure’s complexity - from a few days to several weeks or months. Some procedures are outpatient, others may require a hospital stay.

Your individual health, procedure type, and how well you follow post‐operative instructions all affect risk and recovery.

Tip: Ask for a detailed recovery roadmap: when you can resume work, exercise, heavy lifting, etc. Also ask how long until final results are visible.

4. What should I expect in terms of results - and how long will they last?

It’s essential to understand what the procedure can and cannot do - realistic expectations matter.

Some results are long‐lasting (for example structural changes), others may diminish over time (especially with ageing, lifestyle factors).

Recognize that “perfect” results aren’t guaranteed - many things (healing, body response, lifestyle) can affect outcome.

Tip: Have your surgeon show you before/after photos of patients with similar anatomy and ask “What result could I reasonably expect?” Also ask “How long will this result last, and what maintenance may be needed?”

5. What about cost, insurance coverage and long-term considerations?

Cosmetic surgery is often elective, meaning it’s usually not covered by standard health insurance.

Ask for a full breakdown of costs: surgeon fees, facility fees, anaesthesia, follow-up visits, revision possibilities.

Consider long-term costs: maintenance procedures, potential need for revision surgery, changes due to ageing or weight fluctuations.

Tip: Don’t let cost alone drive the decision. Safety, surgeon experience, and realistic expectations are crucial. Make sure you receive a clear financial estimate in writing and understand what’s included.

If you’re considering surgery and want a clear, personalized discussion of what you don’t see yet, I invite you to book a consultation. We’ll explore your goals, address your questions, and plan a path where you feel informed, confident, and fully supported