LA Confidential| Should You Say Something About the “New Face”

Plastic surgery brings about a dilemma for both the patient as well as those people who are in the lives of the patient. The dilemma is centered on if a person should tell if they are having surgery and if a person who notices plastic surgery should tell the person. While there is no right or wrong approach it can be a very delicate situation. First, patients who are having plastic surgery are covered under HIPPA(the Health and Information Patient Privacy Act) so their privacy is protected within the medical practice. But, what about who the patient tells? Some patients are extremely forthcoming about their breast augmentation or facelift surgery. For some patients it doesnt matter who knows and they are perfectly fine with telling anyone who asks, as well as some who dont ask. But, for other patients it is an extremely private matter and they choose to tell as few people as possible. Patients should make a choice based on their own desires. But, patient should also be prepared for other people within their daily lives to notice a difference. Patient should have an idea of whether they will give an explanation or if they will ignore any comments they may hear. It is best to be prepared and not caught off guard. This will help to reduce any anxiety the patient may be feeling. Friends and family who notice that someone has had plastic surgery such as a rhinoplasty or abdominoplasty for the most part should complement the end result not question the way they achieved the result. For example, noticing that a person looks smaller and has a flat stomach can be handled with a simple complement such as ”you look fabulous” instead of ”your stomach looks so flat did you have a tummy tuck?”. One complement gives the person the opportunity to share the information if they want to or to just say thank you if that is their choice. Dr. Kim appreciates referrals from his patients who are comfortable sharing their plastic surgery experience. If you are considering plastic surgery contact Dr. Kims office and schedule a consultation.