Impulse Chopping

I recently read an article concerning the price of happiness. The article entailed that research studies show money CAN buy happiness. The big catch - purchase items that have a positive impact in your life in place of impulse shopping, which might only offer you a quick burst of satisfaction that easily fizzles out. Easy to say, considering people typically are running rampant after emotional circumstances - myself inclusive.

What about impulse chopping? By this, I mean the compulsion to surgically alter your appearance to make yourself feel better. There are countless possibilities: a tummy tuck, breast augmentation, traditional tumescent liposuction, and Smart Lipo (laser assisted liposuction) to name a few. Many companies offer financing. Some are even looking for volunteers (to gain experience prior to public marketing).

How far are we willing to go to make a change in our life? Have you ever considered a drastic change - after a divorce, losing a job, having an argument? Since I have fallen under the knife(or a cannula) on more than one occasion, I can offer you this advice:

1.Never seek a consultation or follow through with a procedure when you are depressed.

You might regret the procedure if you haven’t thought it through. If you are not feeling good about yourself or a certain situation, you should address that particular situation first.

2. Never schedule an appointment and/or follow through with a procedure when you are premenstrual.

Some women have extreme symptoms of irrationality, sensitivity and mood swings when “The Visitor” is around. Stress and age aggravate these factors. Commonly, we are in a better frame of mind afterward. On the extreme, we might take medications. Always take this into consideration prior to moving forward and to avoid the possibility of making a rash decision.

3. Never consider a procedure to spite your ex.

Recently separated? Divorced? Feeling betrayed? Those are three good reasons to stay away from the knife. Chances are he or she wasn’t worth it. You are better off without the additional pains/stress/duress. Extreme change is not the “cure all.”

4.Educate yourself and Ask Questions.

DO YOUR HOMEWORK! Ask them how they intend to perform the surgery. What are the possible side effects? Will there be pain? How do I tend the incision/stitch site? What type of machinery/surgical equipment will be used to perform the procedure? Will there be a laser contributing to the procedure? Will the laser be used internally or as a burning tool? How many procedures did the physician perform? What are his/her background qualifications/credentials? Does the physician have hospital privileges? - if the procedure is to be performed in-office, you should know if the physician is able to perform the same procedure in a hospital. Check with the hospital’s medical staff office to verify.