A survey by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reveals that many patients agree that they should have done more homework before having cosmetic surgery. Although 8 out of 10 cosmetic plastic surgery patients are satisfied with their surgical experience, nearly 40 percent believe they should have been more proactive in learning about potential side effects and complications before surgery.

The findings suggest that some additional knowledge about potential side effects and complications may have improved patients\' surgical experience and outcome. Before surgery, 91 percent of cosmetic surgery patients said they knew what to expect; however, fewer than half recalled being informed of some common side effects and complications such as bleeding (48 percent), nausea and vomiting (42 percent), or blood clots (34 percent). Patients who experienced a side effect or complication reported being unable to accomplish tasks (35 percent), decreased energy levels (32 percent), and time away from work (27 percent) as negatively impacting their daily life during recovery.

In addition, some cosmetic plastic surgery patients failed to ask questions to help them evaluate whether their doctor was qualified to perform their procedure. Shockingly, nearly one-third (28 percent) of cosmetic plastic surgery patients did not check their doctors\' credentials before surgery. Furthermore, 37 percent did not check if their surgeon was certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and 54 percent did not check if their surgeon completed an accredited residency training program in plastic surgery.

Plastic surgeons encourage patients to take a proactive role in their surgical experience. They should ask about the side effects of surgery and complications of the surgery. Patients should also listen carefully while the plastic surgeon explains the potential risks of the procedure.