Michael Jackson. When you speak his name, you have an instant image of him. What happened? How could anyone get a nose like that? Just how did he let it go this far, you think. So, he really looks terrible, but you probably still feel sorry for him on some deeper level. I mean, he has to live with that the rest of his life right? It just proves that cosmetic surgery is not something to be taken lightly. You need to seriously plan out what you would like and research all the methods of cosmetic surgery that can be used to attain the things you would like.

First, you need to fully understand that cosmetic surgery is not just an instant fix. Just because you have instant coffee does not mean you have instant surgery. You will have recovery time, healing, and everything that goes along with any surgery. You will also have to do your homework and research everything that you can about the cosmetic surgery that you are considering.

You can either research on the internet about the procedure or find a doctor to talk to about it. But, you need to learn as much as you can about the risks and perks of cosmetic surgery before going under the knife. Any doctor worth is salt will explain to you the risks and benefits of any proposed surgery, as well as the alternatives. Next, you need to find the right doctor. Checking with the Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association is a good place to start.

They can point you in the right direction for a qualified surgeon in your area. This group raises the bar for cosmetic surgery and even allows lay people to join. Once you find a doctor, make that initial appointment and interview him or her. This is your opportunity to get to know them. Do not get nervous about talking to the doctor, it is your body that they will be molding or reshaping. If the doctor is vague or skirts around the answers to your questions them, this should be a red flag to you.

Be wary. Make sure that you completely understand the cosmetic surgery that you are considering before making any commitments. Remember to check out where will be performed. Be certain to find out what the post operative recovery will be like.

This can help you prepare for your cosmetic surgery. Knowing where you will be afterward will help to ease your mind going into the surgery.

Dr. Barry Lycka is one of North America's foremost authorities on cosmetic and laser surgery of the skin. You can find out more at http://www.barrylyckamd.com and http://www.restoringyouthonline.com He is founder of the Ethical Cosmetic Surgery Association, htttp://www.ecsaonline.com