ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, Ill. – 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, according to an American Society of Plastic Surgeons’ (ASPS) survey released on March, 2007 conducted by Harris Interactive®.

Interestingly, 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 plastic 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.

  Our society places a high value on looking young and fit. Today, men of all ages and all walks of life are requesting plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons. Men's goals include a more balanced nose, a rejuvenated face, a trimmer waistline. The procedures used to achieve these goals must take into consideration factors such as skin thickness, beard growth, or body type.

This article, prepared by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, reviews some of the special considerations for men contemplating a cosmetic procedure. It won't answer all of your questions, since a lot depends on your individual circumstances. Be sure to ask your doctor if there is anything you don't understand about the procedure you plan to have.

More women in their 20s getting Cosmetic Injections.

You are so vain, or maybe not...

Attitudes about cosmetic surgery vary widely around the world.  Former Italian Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi took a month off for a face lift, which he hasn't been shy about discussing.