If you have decided to have reconstructive surgery and are the point of starting to make concrete plans, there are multiple factors that need to be weighed. For some, just meeting with and discussing their options with reconstructive surgeons will trigger concern for the future as well as deeply repressed fears, but maintaining a sensible approach to restorative cosmetic procedures can help you to hedge your bets. Follow these five steps for planning for successful reconstructive surgery, and patiently await your results.

1. Consult With Your Primary Care Physician -- Hopefully you and your doctor have a good rapport and you have personally discussed your medical history in detail. Even if your doctor is not aware of what type of reconstructive surgery options you have available, both moral support and general medical advice can be relayed. Your doctor can bring up specific medical concerns that may impact your plans to have cosmetic surgery and may even be able to refer you to an expert reconstructive surgeon.

2. Research Your Plastic Surgeon Options -- While there are many reconstructive surgeons available to take on new patients, you may end up needing to travel in order to schedule a consultation and cosmetic procedure. Learn which reconstructive surgeons excel in the particular type of procedure you are looking to have, and then consider cost and location second. You might find that having a reconstructive procedure is more difficult or inconvenient than you first thought it would be, but opting for the best surgeon can help you in obtaining the best results.

3. Contact Your Health Insurance Provider -- Your reconstructive cosmetic procedure might be covered under your health insurance policy. Birth defects and physical injuries caused in accidents are frequently deemed to be medically necessary by doctors, so insurance providers generally step in right away to help patients finance treatment.

4. Talk to a Counselor -- Very often, those preparing to undergo reconstructive surgery can go from being highly enthusiastic about the future to wanting to cancel their procedures altogether. Most reconstructive procedures are deemed successful by both the doctors and patients involved, but risk and complications are also a possibility. Meeting with a counselor may assist you in managing the emotional battle you face as you plan for reconstructive surgery.

5. Reach Out to Family and Friends - It is up to you when you let your family and friends know that you will be having cosmetic surgery. If you think that you will need emotional support from those closest to you, let them know as soon as you have made your decision.